The Holy Season of Lent has arrived – and we rejoice in these 40 days to be guided to the cross, where we marvel at the fullness of God’s love & forgiveness & grace for each of us, and all the world! We had some powerful experiences last week, with 86 people at Ash Wednesday worship in the sanctuary, another 97 receiving Ashes2Go, plus many other worshippers online. Our Youth did a tremendous job with Shrove Tuesday Pancakes – and that night’s Burning of the Palms was so meaningful as the congregation circled around the outdoor cross to sing “Jesus Loves Me” the night before Lent began. We’ve distributed many Lenten devotion books & prayer crosses. You can still pick yours up on Sunday (or call the office if you need one). Special thanks to all who participated in last weekend’s Stuff-a-Bus and Scout food drive. Some 16,000 items were collected for our Backpack food ministry & local food ministries. And last Sunday, at Souper Bowl of Caring, our youth were overwhelmed with $1200 in donations for our local Christian Assistance Bridge! The Spirit of generosity truly thrives in this community of disciples. Our Lenten Fish Fry series has begun. Blue Collar Café food truck will be in the parking lot each Friday from 5-7. You can drive thru & pick up food to go, or take it inside to eat. We also have desserts. Spread the word to neighbors & friends as we seek to raise at least $4000 for our Gamecock Campus ministry that touches many young lives. And sign up to help in the parking lot or fellowship hall, or provide a dessert! You should be receiving your daily 8:34 Lenten Prayer alerts in your email. We also have our Lenten 40×40 drive for Lutheran Services welcome kits. Midweek Lenten Worship is every Wednesday at Noon & 6:30. The evening service is also livestreamed. Next week’s theme will be: Guided to Hope! Sunday, we have our annual Justice Ministry Network Member Blessing at both services, with a special Justice gathering between services in the fellowship hall. On this first Sunday in Lent, we marvel at the strength of Jesus to resist the great tempter, even after 40 days in the wilderness. May we each feel the power of Jesus at work in our lives, as we journey these 40 days that take us to Christ’s ultimate victory of love on the cross! We look forward to being together in worship this Sunday. Christ’s peace!
