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Doing
Nothing for Lent?
Ordinarily
this month’s Soundings
would be filled with
announcements for Lenten programs. There might be a film study
series that explores the theme of Atonement/Redemption in
recent movies, and how these portrayals compare with the
Biblical understanding of the same. Wednesday Pot Luck Dinners
might have explored our current understanding of international
mission, with particular focus on Romania. We won’t be
doing any of those things this year. Instead we spent our
efforts on expressing our gratitude for Chuck and Gloria’s
ministry. That was the wiser endeavor, both for the Holms and
our congregation. Current energy will go into making a good
transition to the interim and search phases. Many pot luck
suppers and congregational discussions will take place after
Easter. So, each of us has to keep Lent on our own.
How
shall we keep Lent this year?
First,
our church’s worship life needs every member’s
support. Put your presence and eager participation in Sunday
worship at the top of the list. Empty pews discourage the
spirit of unity and purpose. A full sanctuary testifies to our
strength as a community of faith and our trust in the future
God has for us. Begin with your commitment to show up ready to
praise God and build the community.
Second,
the church’s life needs your financial support. We will
welcome Gwen Johnson as Coordinator of Educational Ministries
in mid-March. Her task is to maintain the strength of the
educational ministry as she works part-time. Building expenses
continue. The church still pays Pension dues and for pulpit
supply. Our faithful Administrative Assistant maintains the
church office and serves as pastoral care contact. Custodial
services go on. We began the year with a deficit which the
increased pledges reduced. They must be paid to sustain our
life.
Third,
our personal lives of faith need to be nurtured. Nancy Penman
publishes a Prayer List every Friday. It asks you and me to
pray for members, friends and neighbors. Pick it up at worship
and refer to it daily. Remember the needy by setting aside a
daily gift for One Great Hour of Sharing. Pray for them. Read
from the Bible every day. Use the Psalms or one of the Gospels
and refresh your memory regarding Jesus’ gift of life for
you. Reach out to someone weekly with a word of encouragement
or forgiveness or thanksgiving.
Lent
is a season for growth in faith and discipleship. Use these
days to increase joy, lessen burdens and grow in grace. You can
do it on your own, or ask a friend to join you.
Harry
Freebairn, Moderator of Session
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