Newsletter Page Two

Is this too much to ask you
to put into the enclosed
coin folder as your
special Lenten offering?

Is it appropriate to use the words "Lent" and "Free" in the same sentence? We think of Lent, the 40 days that lead up to Easter, as a season of self denial. Freedom, on the other hand, gives us a feeling of loosening bonds. Can the 2 go together?

What ties "Lent" and "Freedom" together is the realization that freedom has its cost. We become free personally, only through struggling to overcome the forces and temptations that stand in our way. God gives you and me freedom, but we need to prepare ourselves to receive and use it creatively. The self denial and going without that are usually connected with Lent were never an end in themselves. They were intended as a reminder of the potential of the Lent season. The end goal is to use this time to find genuine freedom that God plans for us. God wants each of us to be free to share in the continuing tasks of creation. God created. Jesus Christ renewed. In this season, you are called to your own inner renewal, that you may be strong and wise in being co-creators with God, while fully enjoying the life God gives you.

Jesus said to them,

"I have eagerly desired to eat this
Passover with you..." - Luke 22:15

You are invited to celebrate a seder for Maundy Thursday, April 12th at 6:30 p.m.. The sacrament of communion will be celebrated during the Passover seder. A Seder meal will be served so it is essential that you sign at church or call the church office at 828-0020 by April 8th.

the following people who served dinner
at Elijah’s Promise on Sunday, February 4:

The Blood Drive saw eighteen whole blood donations and five platelet donations! Many of these were our St. Paul’s family, for which we are truly grateful. Generosity in giving the gift of life makes miracles for each recipient. Awareness of congenital heart defects was enhanced by supporting this health ministry. The Lynn family and the parents of The Children’s Health Information network thank you.

Joanie Lynn