OPPORTUNITIES FOR LENT

The season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday 22nd February. Lent is a season of self-discipline and spiritual renewal. Opportunities at St John’s include:

WORSHIP

On Ash Wednesday 22nd February at 10.30am and 8pm on Wednesdays in Lent at 10.30am and on Sundays in Lent at 8am,10.30am & 6.30pm

FASTING

This is a normal part of the Christian Life and is strongly encouraged in the season of Lent. Gentle fasting is the best way to begin by giving up alcohol or reducing or omitting one meal a day or per week. Some consider giving up meator diary products, or giving up cake, chocolate or puddings!

ALMS GIVING

The giving of money and/or time to support missionary or charitable groups is a normal part of Lent and the Spiritual Life. Lent is a good time to review our giving of time and money to the service of God’s Kingdom, and of Christ’s Church.

SPIRITUAL READING

Lent is a good time to take up again daily Bible reading, to deepen our spiritual life. Bible Reading Notes, modern translations of the Bible and books on the Spiritual life are available free for loan in the South Aisle. Lent books available from BRF (The Bible Reading Fellowship) can be viewed at www.brfonline.org.uk or in a leaflet in the South Aisle.

TAKE A BREAK

Many people find strength, refreshment and inspiration by spending a few days away, with a religious community. Local opportunities include:

St Michael’s Convent , Ham Common, West London. Details are available from the Guest Sister 56 Ham Common, Richmond, Surrey TW 10 7JH or www.sistersofthechurch.org.uk or Tel No 0208 940 8711

The Diocesan Retreat House, Pleshey, Essex. Details from the Rev Sheila Coughtrey, The Diocesan House of Retreat, The Street, Pleshey, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 1HA or retreathouse.pleshey@virgin.net or Tel No. 01245 237251

The Royal Foundation of St Katharine, Limehouse, London. Details from the Booking Officer 2 Butcher Row, London E.14 8DS or enquires@stkatharine.org.uk or Tel No 0207 790 3540

LENT GROUPS

These are available locally. There is an ecumenical Lent Course run by Churches Together in Cann Hall, Harrow Green & Leytonstone. Details are available from Lieutenant Josh Selfe Tel No 0208 558 7290

Michael Wareing leads a course at his home on Tuesday evenings at 8pm.

I lead a course for Adults on Thursday evenings at 8pm in the South Vestry of St John’s Church, beginning on March 1st. For details telephone 0208 257 2792.

 

RAYMOND DRAPER