Dear Church,
Lent begins in just a few days, on Ash Wednesday, February 18 (you’re invited to join us for Holy Eucharist with the Imposition of Ashes at 7pm). It’s easy for us to get the wrong idea about Lent. It is a solemn season, but not a somber season. It’s a time of self-reflection, but not self-condemnation. It’s a season of repentance, but not punishment. It’s a time for sorrow over sin, but not wallowing in shame.
Ultimately, Lent is a season of repentance and renewal, where for forty days we walk “the way of the cross” through prayer, fasting, and giving: spiritual practices that help us create space to encounter more of God’s grace as we journey with Jesus toward the cross and resurrection. It’s all about grace, not groveling.
You’ll notice several changes to our Holy Eucharist liturgy during Lent that help us embrace the purpose of the season. Here are a few other ways we can “lent” together this year:
First, I hope you’ll join us for our Lent class this year: Growing as Disciples on Sundays at 9am, where we will be discussing a few essentials of the ongoing life we are called to grow into as Christians, opening ourselves to personal transformation and, as a church, becoming a learning community.
You’re also invited to join us for 20 minutes of silence in the church sanctuary before worship each Sunday of Lent, where you can practice centering prayer, or just enjoy the quiet.
I also invite you to consider a Lenten fast of some kind. Our article on How to Fast For Lent has helpful guidelines in choosing a fast that will be effective in creating space for renewal and transformation.
Finally, in addition to your normal giving toward our common life together, I encourage you to consider an extra donation to our Benevolence Fund, which brings assistance to individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship.
Please let me know if you have any questions about Lent. I find myself looking forward to the “spaciousness” of Lent this year. Here’s to a good Lent!
Grace and peace,
Fr. Ben
