History of Lent
by Rev. Gordie Barry | February 17, 2012
February 17 Weekly Update
1. Lent is 40 days from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday (not counting the six Sundays). It is a time of preparation for Easter and historically was used by converts as the final preparation time for coming into the fellowship of the church. The word, “Lent” comes from the English word “lengthen” which we joyfully know living in the northern hemisphere how the days are getting longer now. What a joy it is to have it be lighter closer to 7pm and later, instead of going and coming from work in darkness.
During the first and second centuries of the church there was fasting 40 hours before the Easter celebration to remember the time during Jesus was in the tomb. Later, around the year 600, the fasting was extended to 40 days before Easter corresponding to Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness preparing for this public ministry.
This “preparation” attitude carried over into the church as believers used these 40 days for their final preparations in joining the church on Easter.
We continue this “40 Day” discipline and also use this time to think about our own faith journey and what it means to be a part of God’s holy church. This is where we are going this year in our “Revival and Renovation” thinking with the expectation that we will all take the time and make the time to take a critical look at where we are in relation to where God calls us to be. Have a blessed and holy Lent.
2. Tuesday is the Pancake Supper - 4:30 - 7pm.
We need help in preparing, serving and cleaning up the meal. If you want to help, please give Gordie or the office (429-5911) a call.
3. There is a Revival Coming!!!!!
Our theme for the coming Sundays in Lent (February 26— March 25) is “Membership Revival and Renovation.” This is a personal faith revival and renovation. We will read the book, “Renovate or Die”.
The books are on tables in the hallway.
Please sign the paper as you take your book.
Please read two chapters before each Sunday.
Feb. 26 chapters 1&2 Theme is “Everyone is in Ministry”
March 4 chapters 3&4 Theme is “Getting the Basics Right”
March 11 chapters 5&6 Theme is “Relevant Worship to All”
March 18 chapters 7&8 Theme is “Discipleship vs Member”
March 25 chapters 9&10 Theme is “Our Mission Mentality”
We hope everyone will participate in a small group discussion during each week.
Our plan is to have twelve small groups meeting at the church or in a home: Sunday morning, Sunday Evening, Wednesday evening, and another weekday during the day.
We need twelve people willing to guide the discussion.
(Questions for the discussions will be provided.)
Please call the office if you wish to be one of the discussion leaders.
We will celebrate our personal revival and renovation after Easter on April 15th at one awesome celebration service at 10:00 am!
4. The “World” counter in Faith Hall will be the place where we offer goods for the congregation to buy and help support various mission projects.
5. The “Opportunities” counter across from the bulletin boards will remain for you to sign up for classes and areas of service (Hospitality) in the church.
Have a great weekend, pause for some silent time remembering how much you are loved, Gordie