Season of Lent

Lent, which began Feb 18, is the season leading to Easter.  Lent is an invitation to make our hearts ready for remembering Jesus’ passion and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection.  It is a time of following Jesus into the shadow of death that our sinful humanity may also die with Him.

The practice of a forty-day preparation period -- Sundays being reserved for worship -- began in the Christian church during the third and fourth centuries.  The number forty is significant: based on Christ’s forty days in the wilderness in preparation for his own ministry.

In many churches, Lent is seen as a time for fasting and abstinence, for giving to the poor and demonstrating acts of mercy, for repentance and prayer.

The Lenten season is set aside for self-examination, spiritual transformation and growth.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent.  The ashes marking one’s forehead, similar to the Old Testament practice, is to remind us of our frailty and sinfulness It is an outward sign of repentance and  mourning over our own sin.  

Our worship ministry has provided a journal with Scripture readings, poetry, images and music links to encourage you in your Lenten journey.  Check your mailslot or the info rack outside the main office for a copy.