What is Lent? Lent is a season of preparation leading up to Easter. For centuries, it has been observed as a special time of self-examination, reflection, and trying to live more fully into being the person you feel called to be. If you have found yourself away from church and wondered about giving it another try, Lent is the perfect time. In fact, Lent developed as a way to receive people back into church. If you have questions about faith or wonder what it’s all about, know that you are welcome.
What do you do in Lent? We worship like we always do – Sundays at 8am (without music) and 10am (with music), and Thursday evenings at 5:30pm for our less-formal Sandbox worship. Our worship is more solemn in this season, as we remember our human imperfections before God.
During Lent, we hang versions of the traditional Stations of the Cross in our nave (worship space). Many have found praying their way around the Stations – from Jesus’ condemnation, to his body being laid in the tomb – to be a meaningful Lenten observance. We have booklets of prayers available to guide your prayer. You are welcome to come and walk the Stations any time when the church is open; call ahead to check, 238-2781. We also walk the Stations regularly on Fridays at noon during Lent.
Finally, we have several special groups meeting: a virtual book group reading and reflecting on Evicted together; a Wednesday evening study group on the Gospel of John; and Sunday morning conversations about water, its symbolic and practical meaning and importance. Check our most recent Announcements (over on the left) for more details about these programs.
What’s up with the ashes? Lent begins on March 1, a holy day known as Ash Wednesday, when many Christians receive the mark of ashes on our foreheads as a reminder that we are mortal and will return to dust – but at the same time, we are redeemed and held forever in God’s love.
Ash Wednesday services are at noon, 4pm, and 7pm on Wednesday, March 1, at St. Dunstan’s Church (6205 University Ave.).The 4pm service is especially for kids and families.
Busy day? Stop by our Ashes to Go station that day, from 7:30 – 8:30am or 5 -6pm, at our main driveway. Imposition of ashes and prayer will be available.
Hungry? Lent begins with our Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 28, 5:30 – 6:30pm. Join us for great food and fellowship! Join us and bring a friend for a tasty meal. Suggested donation of $5 per adult, $10 per household, kids eat free. Our neighbors are welcome to attend!