What is Lent?

Lent is a time of soul-searching and repentance in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s death and resurrection on Good Friday and Easter. In the Western Church, Lent consists of the 40 days before Easter, not counting Sundays.  Many Christians undertake special spiritual practices during Lent as a way to walk more closely with Jesus and to understand the crucifixion and resurrection more deeply in their hearts.

This year, our worship and programs for Lent will focus around “Lenten Labyrinths – Journeying in and Journeying Out”.  We will reflect on the journey Jesus took to Jerusalem, the cross, and beyond.  We will also explore our own spiritual journeys and practices that can deepen our relationship with God.

The labyrinth is a path that leads inward to a centre point, and back out again…but not directly. The circuits, or pathways, of a classic labyrinth like the one at Chartres cathedral in France draw close to the centre and then move out to the edges all along the way. Moving on the path, at one moment you find yourself close enough to touch the inner core and in the next moment you are in the outer orbit. Neither position is more valuable – there is no “goal” at the centre, it is simply another place on the journey. Each spot has its particular perspec¬tive, its point of view and its truth. The stories we encounter in this Lent and Easter take us on a labyrinth journey, moving us into the heart and out to the universe. God’s promises of presence, grace, peace, friendship, and joy are viewed from every perspective.  Through it all we are invited to know that God can and does meet us where we are and is our constant companion along the way.

Labyrinth Walks will be offered in Lent on Sunday, March 4 following Worship & Coffee hour; on Monday, March 12 at 7 pm; and as part of “Hands On Lent” on March 20.  Whether you love labyrinth walking or have never tried it, you are invited to join us for one or all of these opportunities.

Lent Event  Sunday, February 26 following worship     Join us for an event for all ages!  We will share a yummy lunch, have a pancake race (a traditional food eaten before the start of Lent to use up yeast and fats)!  There will be stations offered for us to prepare our homes and church for Lent!  Banner making, devotional resources, exploring the Labyrinth, and much more!  Come join us for the fun!  All are welcome!

Ash Wednesday

February 22 at 7 pm – Scripture tells of the ancient tradition of marking oneself with ashes as a sign of grief and repentance.  Many Christians begin their Lenten journey with the anointing with ashes and preparation for the journey to come.

Lent Event  

Sunday, February 26 following worship – Join us for an event for all ages!  We will share a yummy lunch, and have a pancake race (a traditional food eaten before the start of Lent to use up yeast and fats)!  There will be stations offered for us to prepare our homes and church for Lent!  Banner making, devotional resources, exploring the Labyrinth, and much more!  Come join us for the fun!  All are welcome!

Palm & Passion Sunday

April 1 at 10 am – From the joyful entry into Jerusalem with “Hosannas” to cross, the service will share the Holy Week story dramatically.

Maundy Thursday

April 5 with dinner at 6 pm & worship at 7 pm – A special communion service marking Jesus’ last supper with his disciples and the “coming of the shadows”.

Good Friday Vigils

April 6 from Noon-3pm and 7-9 pm – Observe Good Friday and Jesus’ death on the cross with a time of contemplation.  The sanctuary will be open with an ongoing presentation of  music and art that explores the cross.  There will be a guide for reflection available.  Come any time for a few minutes or a few hours of prayer.

Easter Sunrise

April 8 at 6:22 am on Mount Mohawk – Celebrate the dawn of Easter on the top of Mount Mohawk.  We will “green the cross” and sing “Alleluia” to celebrate the resurrection.  Dress warmly as the winds can be cold!

Easter Morning Celebration

April 24 at 10 am – Mark the end of our Lenten journeys with the celebration of Easter!