What is Lent?
Lent is a 40-day period of renewal, not counting Sundays which are always feast days. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 17, the most solemn day of the the liturgical year. It culminates in the Great Three Days of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Vigil of Easter which lead directly into the most joyous season of the liturgical year, the 50 days of Easter. This period of renewal is characterized by a 40-day discipline.

What is meant by discipline?
For Christians the word discipline is connected closely with the word disciple. Discipline means exercising the marks of being a disciple of Jesus. It is a matter of training, not punishment; a period of strengthening, not deprivation. Depriving ourselves of something we like is not what pleases God. There is no virtue in suffering for suffering’s sake.

What is meant by disciple?
A disciple is trained to follow in the way of the master. The identity of Jesus is seen in how his disciples live. Certain characteristics mark themselves as followers. Prayer, deliberation, service, and peacemaking are some characteristics of Jesus’ life.

Why exercise?
Exercising the marks of being a disciple of Jesus can be done in two ways. First, we can remind ourselves daily of our identity as disciples of Jesus. Second, we remove those things that interfere with being a disciple of Jesus. Either of these ways strengthens our identity as a disciple, just as daily exercises and training strengthen students and athletes.

Who does the exercising?
Exercising is done by the congregation as a whole and by individuals. The congregation gathers at a set time for prayer and study. On the other hand, individuals decide what their exercise will be, how and when it will done. Those who want help with their exercise can see Pr. Wenninger.

What exercise will the congregation be doing?
In the middle of Lent, Wednesday, March 10 at 7:30PM there will be a Service of Healing and Encouragement.

What are some personal things I could do during Lent?
Each person selects a discipline which they can fulfill comfortably. If you do not know where to start, click here for some suggestions. Keep in mind that whatever discipline you choose should strengthen the marks of being a disciple. It is not a matter of giving something up for the sake of suffering, or deprivation.

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