From the Interim Minister
Lent & Worship
Fast to Feast
Opening Space for God
The season of Lent is 46 days spanning from Ash Wednesday to Easter. Lent literally means lengthening, as the days lengthen during this time as we transition from winter into spring. Religiously, it is an intentional 40 days of extra devotion plus 6 Sundays. Traditionally Christians are invited to more time in prayer, Bible study and service, and more giving of resources in the support of others. To facilitate that extra devotion, folks are asked to give up other things, to fast, opening up space and resources for the Lenten devotion.
This year during Lent, our Sunday services will focus on opening space for God in our lives – to fast from something so that we might have space to feast on another. For these 6 Sundays we will utilize a different order of worship. Also, daily devotional booklets are available for your personal use. There will be other opportunities to engage in devotion that have not yet been solidified. Watch your weekly emails for more information.
Wednesday, March 5 – Ash Wednesday – 7 PM
Fast from Complaining; Feast on Appreciation
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
March 9
Fast from Fear; Feast on Faith
Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16; Luke 4:1-13
March 16
Fast from Pessimism; Feast on Optimism
Psalm 27; Luke 13:31-35
March 23
Fast from Self-pity; Feast on Joy
Psalm 63:1-8; Luke 13:1-9
March 30
Fast from Bitterness; Feast on Forgiveness
Psalm 32:1-5; Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
April 6 – Communion
Fast from Selfishness; Feast on Service
Psalm 126; John 12:1-8
April 13 – Palm Sunday
Fast from Criticism; Feast on Praise
Psalm 118:1-2, 20-29; Luke 19:28-40
Let’s Party on Sunday!!
Mardi Gras – Fat Tuesday – Shrove Tuesday
Pancake Supper
5:00 PM – March 2
Games, Food and Fun for all ages.
We’ll gather in Addis Hall on Sunday to learn some of the traditions around the Tuesday before Lent. We’ll have craft activities and play games in addition to enjoying a delicious supper of pancakes, sausage and fruit. The evening will end with the burning of last year’s palms in preparation for the Ash Wednesday service.
Gather in the Sanctuary for a time of centering, confession, and the imposition of ashes. We use the symbol of ashes to remind us of our mortality and dependence on God. Ritually, we engage in confession as a spiritual washing in preparation for our devotion during lent. This service is appropriate for elementary age through adult.
To read the full SPIRE click here.