Mardi Gras, Lent, and More!
Dear friends and members of St. Matt's,
This is our last Sunday in the season of Epiphany, before we enter into the season of Lent with Ash Wednesday on March 2nd. It's customary before Lent begins to try to sneak in a little sugar and a little fun. So, I hope you'll join us for a little bit of Mardi Gras on Sunday (2/27) after church. We'll have some treats, beads, and (fun!) masks. Wear your Mardi Gras colors and join us on Sunday for worship and a little festive fun afterwards.
If you haven't decided yet about your Lenten practice, this is a good time to think about it! Please let me know if I can help you. And remember, the goal of both giving something up or taking something on is to shake up your routine. To make room for God, to clear some space in your heart, your head, and your life to hear God more clearly. So whatever you choose to do should help you in that way. It's not about depriving or punishing ourselves - we believe in a loving God who wants us to thrive. However, all of us in the midst of this busy life, can benefit from some focus. And that focus sometimes comes from changing a pattern, giving up something beloved, taking on a new prayer intention, or engaging in a new service opportunity.
There are many ways for you to participate in the season of Lent with us. There will be new service opportunities in Lent and Easter, new opportunities for formation and fellowship for our kids, a few unique musical and worship offerings, a Quiet Day, and so much more. Keep an eye on our e-news and on our website to make sure you don't miss any of these opportunities to connect either in person or virtually. If you are planning on worshipping virtually for Ash Wednesday and would like me to pack some ashes for you, so that you can participate at home, please send me a note.
I hope to see you over the next few weeks quite a lot! For Mardi Gras on Sunday (also it's a great Gospel story - the Transfiguration!) and Ash Wednesday next week as we begin a holy Lent together. Until then, God bless you and keep you.
Faithfully,
--Marissa +