Julie's Jottings for February

In a few weeks’ time, we will arrive at Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.  Lent holds both cultural and religious significance, Many will see this as a time to abstain or fast, and to clear the way to a more wholesome mental and spiritual life. For the church, this is time when we prepare ourselves for Easter, Christianity’s central feast.

At St Mary’s Church, those preparing for Confirmation on Easter Eve put themselves in the place of disciples as they learn about faith and how it connects with their life now. Others take Lent as an opportunity to reassess their commitment to living in service to God and others.

Traditional practices such as removing flowers from the church and not singing the Gloria help focus attention on repentance and self-examination. St Mary’s also offers opportunities for deeper reflection through study groups like the Pilgrim Group and a series of four Lent Talks. The first, led by Dr Karen O’Donnell on 19 February, at 7pm will explore “Where is God in Trauma?” and discuss how church liturgy can better support those facing trauma. Karen’s book ‘Survival’ looks at key themes of Lent and Easter such as forgiveness, anger, demands for justice and grief, and how the liturgy and practice of the church could be more helpful to those who have experienced trauma.

Laurentius, a newcomer to Christian faith was asked by St Augustine for a simple guidebook of the Christian faith.  St Augustine summed it up in three words, faith, hope, and love. Love for St Augustine was not just a feeling, but loving action.   
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Rev Julie Norris