|
As I've shared with some of you before, growing up Baptist I had no experience with Ash Wednesday or Lent. Those were things that only Catholics did, or so I thought. It wasn't until I became a Presbyterian that I realized Christians besides Catholics also practiced these things. However, as we move toward a year of pandemic life, we are once again challenged with finding new ways to worship God safely.
A week from today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the season of Lent. Normally, we would meet in the Chapel on Wednesday evening for a worship service, culminating in the imposition of ashes on our foreheads as a reminder that we are human and that we have come "from dust and to dust we shall return" - as scripture reminds us. As a pastor, I am reminded every year what a privilege it is to say these words while placing ashes upon the foreheads of our church family. But like a number of things, we can't do that this year the way we normally do it. So, here is what we have planned to do for Ash Wednesday.
Next Wednesday, February 17, we will have an online Ash Wednesday service that will be available all day. For those who would like the Imposition of Ashes, we will be offering the opportunity to drive through the portico at the church from 12:00 to 12:30 PM, and again from 6:00 to 6:30 PM. Brian and I will be there to share a few words, offer a blessing or a prayer, and impose ashes using Q-tips. We will also be wearing gloves and masks. Heidi and Christian will prepare music that will be playing during this time, and there will be a table set up with the cross and the Bible to create a sacred space. I know it's not the same, but our Worship Ministry Team and our staff believe it's the best we can do it for now. We hope you will find the best way for you to join in worship that day!
The first Sunday of Lent is February 21st, and our theme will be "Lent - a Time to Repent." Also, remember our Prayer Vigil on Saturday, February 20, from Noon until 6:00 PM -- followed by a "Service of Prayers for Peace" beginning at 6:00 PM as a Drive-In service in our East parking lot.
|
