A New Season

               February begins a new season of our church year which is called Lent. On Ash Wednesday, February 18^th Lent officially begins. Here are some interesting facts about Lent:

     ~ Lent is not observed by all Christian worshipping communities.

         Lutherans, Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox and all major

         Protestant denominations all observe Lent. But Baptists,

         Evangelicals, Pentecostals, and Mormons do not.

     ~  Lent is not mentioned in the Bible. It was actually started by

         the Roman Catholic Church in 325 AD at the Council of Nicaea.

         Originally, fasting was the major theme of Lent and over time

         the idea of “giving things up for Lent” became the prominent

         focus, especially the concept of not eating meat on

         Friday. McDonalds “Filet of Fish” was introduced for this

         reason.

Here at Christ The King  Lutheran Church we observe Lent by “taking on new things” as a way of getting closer to God. For us, it begins a season of reflection, of discernment, and of taking steps to be new people.  Lent is a season where we focus not on “what we give up”, (although some habits might be healthy to give up), but instead, on what new habits and practices we can “take on”.

       I invite you to join with me on Ash Wednesday, February 18^th at either the 11am service or the 6:30 pm service.  We will also host a 5:30pm Soup and Sandwich supper prior to the 6:30 worship service. The concept of moving closer to God will be explored by communing together, and marking our foreheads with ashes to remind ourselves that we are children of God. Taking on something new would be a great way to begin Lent. Come and see how Lent can be a spiritual tool for you!

      Pastor Ellisen