|
Grace and Peace,
“Lent is a time of returning to God. It is a time to confess how we keep looking for joy, peace, and satisfaction in the many people and things surrounding us, without really finding what we desire. Only God can give us what we want. So, we must be reconciled with God, as Paul says, and let that reconciliation be the basis of our relationships with others. Lent is a time of refocusing, of re-entering the place of truth, of reclaiming our true identity.”
~ Excerpt from Sabbatical Journey Henri Nouwen ~
Our Lenten theme of “Back to Basics: Breathing with God” recognizes this reality in our lives. This Lent, we are focusing our time, formation, and worship on "Going back to basics and being with God." Worship will include more time for reflection, and we will create that time by reducing the readings offered each week, focusing the season solely on the epistle and gospel passages. Sermons may also include reflection or exercises for creating space with God.
Wednesday evenings there will be a simple meal of soup and bread followed by Evening Prayer, which will also include music for reflection. Please take a moment to sign up below to provide soup or bread so that everyone may enjoy these meals.
We encourage you to avoid the pressures of adding a new practice to your busy lives, or removing a pleasure from your stressed lives. Rather, we pray that you will simply enjoy the chocolate while finding time to be present with God. Dark chocolate, a cup of tea, and God make wonderful companions.
This Sunday, being the second Sunday of the month, will have a focus on formation. At noon, in the Prayer Room, we will offer an opportunity to learn about Centering Prayer. This centuries old practice may help you simply sit with God. Come by the Prayer Room this Sunday to learn more.
We also encourage you to explore ways to clear the distractions from your life. Each week suggestions concerning Clearing time, Clearing money, Clearing noise, and Clearing the kitchen will be offered. These are intended to give inspiration, not become tasks on a must-do list, so that you can clear some noise from your own life and make space for time with God.
Prayer & Share is also taking root this lent; through small groups we hope that everyone will have the opportunity to connect with others to share challenges, and prayers for each other. Some groups will be in-person over coffee, some digital, some groups are choosing to walk together, and some play Pickle-ball. There are many opportunities, if you have not already done so, reach out to Deacon Nancy and connect with a Prayer & Share group.
Lent is a time of returning to God, make a date now for coffee with God.
Peace
Fr. Henry+
| 
