February 2016
An Open and Affirming
LENTEN DINNER AND DISCUSSION Wednesdays, February 17, 24, March 2, 9, 16
ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE February 10 â—? 7 pm Dinner â—? 6 pm
Violence is at the heart of Lent. As the darkest story of our faith Lent confronts us with the violence done to Jesus and how to this day many of us are confused about the relationship between violence and faith.
Once again we move from the light of Christmas and Epiphany to the darkness of Lent.
So join us to hear from a Jewish rabbi, a Muslim Imam, Violence Interrupters of Freeport and the violence of racism.
Ash Wednesday begins this season of Lent, the period of 40 days, not counting Sundays, based in the biblical tradition of repentance which means turning around, of ashes which signify mourning and grief, and wilderness which tell of barrenness and desolateness of the season. Through this journey we walk with Jesus through his darkest, desert moments.
Dates and names to be announced soon. For now please mark your calendars.
FROM THE SEARCH COMMITTEE The search committee is happy to announce that it has completed the church profile, a 25 page document containing information about our congregation to introduce St John to candidates interested in the position of pastor. Soon a copy or two will be available in the church office for your perusal.
Join us on Ash Wednesday for service and dinner, receive ashes and begin your Lenten journey so you may be ready to embrace Easter resurrection and rebirth. For the way to rebirth is always through labor pain.
The search committee has also met with Kathy Lawes, Associate Conference Minister IL Conference Prairie Association and will work with her to advertise the position in the UCC employment opportunities.
LENTEN DEVOTIONALS FOR YOUR JOURNEY Mercy, Passion & Joy by C.S. Lewis and Living Lent As People of the Resurrection by Rich Bimler are available in the Narthex. Grab yours today!
In the next few months the committee will receive candidate profiles and start the process of discernment. We will keep you posted. For now please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance of the Spirit. Thank you! 1