Hello friends!
Although it feels to me as though Christmas is not far past (Candlemas two Sundays ago signalled the end of Epiphany) we are now arriving to Lent with Ash Wednesday combining forces with the rather different mood of valentines day. You will see that we have a special service on the 14th with the imposition of ashes. I am assured it is perfectly acceptable to show up for your Valentine’s date with the black cross on your forehead, who knows – perhaps it will be a good conversation starter!
As we come towards this season of penitence and drawing close to God in stillness as we prepare for Easter, you might like to give something up or put something down. This could be a habit, something physical or even an attitude you carry. On the other hand you might rather do the reverse – choosing instead to take up a habit, add something to your routine or try to position yourself in a new way. All of these are valid ways to engage with this season of Lent. Some of you will have been to a lent or advent group in the past and will be familiar with the opportunity they provide to help mark these seasons in our year. They are usually wonderful times for prayer, reading and discussing the bible together and sometimes just sitting in stillness together. Our spirituality can feel so unknown to even ourselves sometimes but these are opportunities to reflect with others on what we think about God and faith, growing closer in friendship and faith together. This year we will reflect on our diocesan values: Openness, bravery, creativity and generosity as we think about what difference they make in our own lives and spiritual practice.
This coming Sunday is Racial Justice Sunday, a day for us to look at the reality of our world, acknowledge the pain and dream of a better future as we, and our communities are transformed by Christ. It makes sense for us to do this as we begin a season thinking about sin and repentance. These are such jarring words to so many of us, coming with all sorts of baggage of guilt and fear. I heard sin described recently as mistrust which leads to isolation. Perhaps that is one helpful way to think about what sin is in our lives – trusting in things, or people, that are not good for us which can result in loneliness and unhealthy habits. I wonder how you might describe sin? I’d love to hear your thoughts over the coming week or so!
Whatever this week brings your way, I hope and pray that you can find a strand of love and hope in it. We would love to see you on Sunday, either at our 8:30 Holy Communion or our 10:30 café church, where we will gather as a community to explore the Bible, worship God and pray together. All are welcome, you are invited!
Grace & peace,
Rev. Phil