From Pastor's Desk
This year we have been discussing the seasons of the church year. The church year mirrors the life of Christ and all he has done and taught. For this article I want to discuss the time of Lent, which is sometimes called Pre-Easter. Through the centuries Lent has taken on so many overtones with fasting and penitence, that it somewhat disguises the true character of the season.
The proper mood is one of expectation, of waiting, not unlike that of Advent. The Christian ought to feel not only sorrow, because of their sins, but also joy. They should have joy because of the triumph of the Resurrection.
Lent is usually 40 days. The 40-day period (not counting Sundays) parallels Christ’s time in the wilderness. This is the reason why the First Sunday Gospel reading of Lent is often Christ’s confrontation with Satan. If you go to a church that reads through the One Year lectionary they add three Sundays and call it “Pre- Lent”. The first Sunday is Septuagesima (means Seventh). The Second Sunday is Sexagesima (Sixtieth). The third Sunday, and the Sunday before Ash Wednesday is called Quinquagesima (Fortieth). St. Peter and St. Paul read through the Three Lectionary and Transfiguration Sunday is always before Ash Wednesday.
The mood we usually associate with Lent is Sorrow and Sadness, but it need not be. The Eastern church retain the Hallelujahs, because they look forward to Christ’s Resurrection. In the western churches the mood of lent is marked by an ancient ceremony known as “Farewell to Hallelujah”. In the west Lent tends to focus on Jesus Death and suffering. Since we are heading towards the Cross with Christ. We should remember that Lent is leading us towards Holy Thursday Good Friday and Easter. Lent is not the End. This is why the Hallelujahs come back at Easter, and we are reminded of Christ’s victory over death. In Christ, Rev. Jacob Stuenkel.
Some of the information was taken from “The Year of The Lord: The Church Year: its Customs Growth and Ceremonies. By Theodore Kleinhans. Concordia Publishing, 1967. Pages 61-63.
Ash Wednesday and Lenten Services
Ash Wednesday Service – March 2nd – 7:00 pm
Wednesday Lenten Services – 7:00 pm
St. Peter - Sunday School
The Sunday School children have been learning stories that show God's eternal love for them as well as how faith works in us. They have been singing songs like "Rise and Shine" and "Love in a Box." We made special valentines for every Congregation member and handed them out after church on February 13th. All are welcome: preschool 8th grade; so invite your neighbors, friends, and relatives!
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Board of Witness News
The Lenten season is here and I still need a couple of volunteers for Lenten Meals (March 16, 23, 30) as well as Easter breakfast. A big thank you to all who have already signed up. I am willing to help cook one of the meals with someone if you don't want to do it alone. If you are not into cooking, think about helping with a game or movie night. Maybe our dartballers would like to open the game up for a friendly competition among families?? Some of you have talents you could share by leading a how to class. People are drawn into the church when they feel connected to the other members. We don't need 50 people to show up to do something or have lots of preplanning. These events help foster fellowship with Christians and provide a less intimidating atmosphere for people looking for a church home. I believe we need to go out in the community and not just invite the community in. That is why I threw the Picnic in the Park idea out in my first email. I also think an Easter egg hunt/roll would be a super idea. Call, text, email, or catch me at church if you have other ideas or want to help with one I suggested. We have a beautiful church and wonderful people and we all believe in an AWESOME GOD! Let's share it.
God's Blessings,
Bridgett
Easter Flowers
Spring is coming! Easter flower order forms will be posted on the narthex bulletin board. Price is $8.50 per plant. Cash or checks can be made out to Jeff Brubaker)
Choices: Lily or Regal Geranium Orders must be in no later than Marth 20th. Please place your order in the offering plate or contact Bette Weddelman.
