Lenten Newsletter

Dear Nativity Family,

We have entered into the season of Lent. It comes at a time when the world feels as if it is swirling around us. It is a season for fasting, praying and almsgiving. But it is also a season of lengthening days and of beauty that surrounds us as winter gives way to spring. Notice the beauty…the blooming flowers, the greening of the grass, the song of the birds. Lent is a season for reflection, a season for drawing closer to God, a season for discernment.

The 40 days of Lent are rooted in great Biblical history, beginning with Noah. Lent is often associated with Jesus’ time in the wilderness prior to beginning his public ministry. These 40 days, and especially this year, present us with an opportunity to journey together in public worship and in Bible reading.

The Bible Slam has returned! This great project was begun by the Rev. Kirk LaFon. For a time, it was suspended due to Covid-19 and a few other factors. Begun in 2020, it was a method by which the entire Bible would be read during a Lenten season; life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans (John Lennon!). It returns this Lent, and all are invited to participate. You will need the code to enter the church. The code will be emailed to Nativity folks; or you may contact the Vicar.

On March 19, we will have a come and go Quiet Day at Nativity. It will be called “Tools on the Journey” and is composed of 4 parts: Prayer Book Pilgrimage, the Anglican Rosary, Handheld Labyrinth and Stations of the Cross. The day will begin at 9:30 and ends at 4:30. A more detailed schedule will be shared later. Come and spend the day at Nativity; if your schedule does not permit the entire day, come and join in any part that interests you.

As I write these words, I am thinking of words from Suffrage A that are found in Morning Prayer (page 97 BCP). V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world; R. For only in you can we live in safety. These are important words for our times. The Book of Common Prayer may be found online; during this Lenten season, I invite you to participate in the Daily Office. You might also like to participate in Daily Office with Mission St. Clare The Daily Office from The Mission of St. Clare (missionstclare.com) Make prayer a priority!

I bid you all a Holy Lent. May God bless you in this season as you bless others.

Faithfully,

Ann +, Vicar