Dear Church Family,
               Lent, that 40 day plus six Sunday period of reflection, repentance, and renewal leading to Easter, began on Wednesday.  Lent comes from an old English word meaning “lengthen” and refers to the lengthening of days.  By the time Lent is over, spring will be upon us, sunlight hours will be longer and the days warmer,  and the first flowers will be in bloom. 
               The Deacons met last Sunday to discuss plans for the season.  We’re not quite ready to return to some old traditions.  Lenten lunches will not be held this year, nor the Easter sunrise service and breakfast. The Maundy Thursday service will include communion and Tenebrae rather than the meal in Miner Hall.  Even so, the season will be full of rich worship and devotion. 
               A four week in person Bible study on the parables of Jesus will provide good opportunity for learning, relationship building,  and spiritual preparation.  A flyer giving the details is attached.
               The Deacons also reviewed Covid protocols. Given the waning incidence of the omicron variant and the low positivity rate in our area (lowest in the state), mask wearing during worship will be optional.  However, anyone who feels more comfortable continuing to mask should feel free to do that.  We will continue to keep the service to 45-50 minutes ( indeed, that may be permanent---no one ever laments a tight, well structured, but succinct service!! ).  A time for fellowship and a cup of coffee (but not a meal)  will be available in Miner Hall after worship. 
               Worship for the 1st Sunday in Lent will center on the story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness prior to the beginning of his ministry.  The texts are Deuteronomy 26:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13.  The sermon is simply titled “temptation.” 
See you in church,
Peace and Joy,
Rich