Rector’s Invitation: Pancakes and Ashes
Dear Restoration,
“Blessed is the one whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord our God.” (Psalm 146:5)
Confession: I love today and tomorrow.
Two of my favorite days in our corporate life together are Ash Wednesday and the Tuesday before. I love making a deliberate turn with you from the brightness of Epiphany to the somber humility of Lent. These are two days that tend to pass by the wider world, but they are so special to us in the church. I love spending them with you.
Today
We start at 6pm tonight with pancakes (and BACON!!). We will serve them in fellowship hall from 6-7. You can come at anytime during that hour– eat and visit with friends, new and old. The sun will be setting. If you bring a jacket you can sit out back. I hope you can have dinner with us.
At 7pm, we will have a Parish Gathering in the sanctuary. We do this three times a year to check in on Restoration Family business. How are our finances? Where are we serving in the community? What changes have happened to our staff team? How are we progressing on our strategic plan? I love getting to hear (and tell!) what God is doing in and through our church. It will last about 50 minutes. There will be handouts. You can ask questions. We are providing childcare during the Gathering portion (from 6:50-7:50pm only) for kids 5th grade and below on the first floor.
Tomorrow
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent. We will offer three opportunities for our community to gather for worship and the imposition of ashes: 6:30am, 12:00pm, 7:30pm (this service will also be broadcast on our YouTube channel). The service begins in quiet stillness. The liturgy takes us on a careful examination of what we have done and left undone. The assurance of forgiveness propels us into a season of disciplined reflection and preparation for Easter hope. It is a beautiful service. I hope you can be with us.
These are some of my favorites! I look forward to being with you.
Update on the wearing of masks
For Tuesday’s Parish Meeting and all 3 services on Ash Wednesday, the vestry is removing our previous guidance regarding masks and you are free to make your own decision about wearing one. This applies to all ages, including children who will be in the nursery during the Parish Meeting or at services on Ash Wednesday. The CDC guidance for those in an area of low level of disease says: “People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.”
I invite you to the observance of a holy Lent.
“The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous… The Lord will reign forever… Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 146)
See you tonight!
-David
