Yesterday, February 24, was Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Season of Lent. Like many churches, St. Luke's on the Lake offered multiple worship services. Among Episcopalians, it is a day (along with Good Friday) where worshippers might go to an Episcopal church other than their own. A particular time that is convenient for them or a closer proximity to their workplace or home allows for them to attend this important service, and thus, begin this holy season in a meaningful way.
But, I am also interested in the way that Ash Wednesday and Good Friday (which this year falls on April 6th) seem to attract Christians from many backgrounds, some from other denominations and others from independent churches. I have two dear pastor friends that attended one of our Ash Wednesday services last year. They were so moved by the liturgy and especially, the imposition of ashes, that they invited their staffs to join them this year. It was wonderful to see about fifteen "guests" at the morning service. I like to call this, "Evangelicals on the Canterbury Trail." What a vision of the Church united, as the way Jesus had hoped it might be and for the reason he died and rose again.
I would urge you to spend some time in the "Proper Liturgies for Special Days", a section of the Prayer Book that commences on page 263. This is the section of special worship services, beginning with Ash Wednesday on page 264 and concluding the Great Vigil of Easter. And if you ever find yourself unable to attend an Ash Wednesday service in the future, or even a Good Friday service on April 6th, simply bring your prayer book with you on the airplane, at the doctor's office, or wherever you might be, and read these beautiful and powerful words to yourself.
Blessings this Season of Lent as you journey to the Cross. Fr. Mike
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