What are you giving up for Lent this year? If I had a nickel for every time I’ve been asked that through the years...well...I’d have a lot of nickels! And while I understand the discipline of “fasting” from something indulgent, for me the opposite tradition rings true. So the question I ask myself as we begin our annual, 40-day Lenten “journey” is this: “What will I take on this Lent that might bring me closer to God?”

I invite you to join me. I am leaving the lectionary again this Lent to focus on the theme of Soul-Tending; each week, we will explore a different spiritual practice or discipline during worship. In addition, for those willing, we will meet in the sanctuary each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. to look at daily suggestions for practices that just might bring you closer to God. These daily suggested activities will be shared online here and on our Facebook page. We will begin February 26. And don’t forget our drop-in study of Luke’s gospel each Tuesday at noon in the office.

Spiritual Practices                           

Feb 26 Sacrifice and Simplicity

Mar 5  Scripture Study

Mar 12 Service

Mar 19 Silence and Solitude

Mar 26 Sabbath and Soul-tending

April 2 Wrap-up session

On Sunday evenings, we will be exploring racism in a different way: we will meet in the sanctuary (sometimes with a special guest) to view filmed versions of Broadway musicals (and one documentary). The times will be varied because each movie is a different length; the tentative schedule is listed below; check check back for updates. Please invite your friends and neighbors to attend with you.

Films                          

Feb 26 Broadway Musicals: A Jewish Legacy 6pm

Mar 5  West Side Story  5pm

Mar 12 Show Boat 6pm

Mar 19 South Pacific 5pm

The March 26 film has been cancelled.

April 2 Fiddler on the Roof (with dinner) 4pm

Visit https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-when-did-ash-wed-begin-and-why-do-we-celebrate-it for more information.