Lent begins with a solemn call
to fasting and repentance as we begin our journey to the baptismal waters of
Easter. The lectionary readings appointed for the day of Ash Wednesday
(Joel 2:1-2, 12-17; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; and Matthew 6:1-6,
16-21) remind us “now is the acceptable time to return to the Lord.”
During Lent, the people of God are called to reflect on the meaning of their
baptism into Christ’s death and resurrection. The sign of ashes suggests
our human mortality and frailty, but the ashes also invite us to make each day
a new beginning as we are washed in God’s mercy and forgiveness.
There will be two opportunities to worship on Ash
Wednesday at noon and 6:30PM. There will be Holy Communion and the Imposition
of Ashes at both liturgies. Services will be held at First English Lutheran
Church on Wednesday, February 10th. | 
