From the Interim Executive,
I’m writing this on February 18th, the day after Ash Wednesday. I missed the chance to worship in person, but I’m very grateful for the service organized by Cincinnati Presbytery. It helped me reflect on our mortality and sinfulness, and to prepare for Lent.
As I prayed and considered what to give up, or what to take on, for Lent, my thoughts went to the Matthew 25 initiative, of which the Synod, many presbyteries, and even more churches are a part. It encourages us together and as individuals to focus on developing congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism, and eradicating systemic poverty.
Thinking through the ways that I might work toward these goals, I landed on my Lenten practice. Every day I hope to write a handwritten note to someone who may feel lonely. In this way I’ll live into the caring relationships which is a mark of Vital Congregations. (If you have suggestions of people to whom I might write, send me an email to the address below, with a bit of information about the recipient and their address.)
It’s not too late to come up with a Lenten practice. How might the Matthew 25 initiative shape your Lent? Remember Lenten practices are not an end unto themselves; they are a means by which the Holy Spirit equips us to join Christ’s mission to the world.
Your partner in ministry,
Rev. Charles B Hardwick, PhD
Interim Executive
248-729-2415
chip@synodofthecovenant.org