This coming Sunday we celebrate the first Sunday of Lent. In liturgical churches like the Anglican Church, the church calendar is laid out to guide us through the significant seasons and events in the life of Jesus. The church calendar begins with Advent, that time of preparation for the birth of our Savior. We then move to Christmas, and to the Epiphany when the magi arrive to celebrate the newborn king. Jesus' baptism is celebrated on the first Sunday after Epiphany.
Today we celebrate the first Sunday of Lent. In liturgical churches like the Anglican Church, the church calendar is laid out to guide us through the significant seasons and events in the life of Jesus. The church calendar begins with Advent, that time of preparation for the birth of our Savior. We then move to Christmas, and to the Epiphany when the magi arrive to celebrate the newborn king. Jesus' baptism is celebrated on the first Sunday after Epiphany.
In the scriptures we read that after Jesus was baptized he spent forty days in the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil. This is reflected in our church calendar by the season of Lent. Lent is observed as a time of penitence and self reflection. Just as Jesus went without food, we are encouraged to give up our creature comforts to remind ourselves of Jesus' suffering on our behalf, and of the suffering that so many people endure every day.
Acts of charity and fasting on a weekly basis are encouraged. Often people "give something up" for Lent. If this is your practice, make it something that really matters. We will all have the opportunity to give our "mite" to feed a hungry child in Ghana. Bring your change for the "mite jar" each Sunday.
I encourage you all to participate in our Lenten Program, which will focus on the biblical themes in the movie "Amazing Grace." Good study and great fellowship are a sure bet. Let's be faithful in our observance of a holy Lent.
Rector, South Riding Anglican Church
Office: 703-961-1983
Cell: 240-217-4370
Home: 717-762-0924
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