10 Trinity Sq
Toronto, ON
M5G 1B1
416-598-4521
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Wed. 12:15 pm

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What are You Doing for Lent?

SARA BOYLES
Spring is in the air. Maybe this will make us more ready for the early Lent we are having this year. It begins Wednesday with a service reminding us of our mortality and our relationship with the earth. Maureen Press once said in an Ash Wednesday sermon, "We are made of star dust." Somehow this has connected me more completely to the universe, the body of God, than to believe I am only ash, of the earth.

I suppose one could argue that Lent begins on Shrove Tuesday. This Tuesday is the traditional time for pancakes which uses up all the fat and meat byproducts lingering in the frig. In our health conscious Toronto, I don't know anyone anymore that cooks with lard and bacon fat any more unless they are making some traditional dish. Even then, they have learned to use less artery clogging products.

Are you doing something for Lent other than filling your Coin box with loonies or toonies (or a cheque - easier to count) and counting your blessings? Some folks use this season as a time of discipline. Someone I know is planning to spend Lent without TV. Others take something on like Jim's book group, David's prayer meditation group, the use of a devotional guide or visiting old friends, simpler living. Some see it as a unique time to practice humility and generosity.

I encourage you to participate in Wednesday services, either here or in another church. Be marked with ash and ritual begin he journey to Easter. Be kind to one another. Phone or visit some of our shut ins. Be good to yourself, live abundantly and easily. Pray regularly. I will see you on Feb. 27, fresh from my holiday and a retreat.

Sara

November 30, 1999