by Julie Hashbarger

As Lent approaches, and our minds and hearts turn toward events leading up to Christ’s crucifixion; we have the blessed opportunity to take part in Lenten small study groups with other members of the Bethany family.

Lent is the forty days (not including Sundays) that lead from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday. Moving devotionally together through the period of Lent provides an opportunity to truly and intentionally prepare you for the joyful celebration of Easter morning.

This year’s Lenten study is a 4-5 week series reflecting on the themes of: Sacrifice, Redemption, Reconciliation, and Repentance. The study guide booklet lays out the groundwork for reflection and further deepening of your relationship with Christ. The study has been prayerfully and thoughtfully prepared by a group of Bethany family members and includes Scripture reading, reflections, artwork and music to compliment each theme.

The inclusion of a piece of art and music to accompany each week of the study came out of suggestions made to enrich the weekly studies. How often have we observed a piece of art and not felt a pause in our heart over the subject matter? The same is true for music which also has the ability to affect our emotions in a very deep way through its melody and words. With the inclusion of these two elements, the hope is that the reflections will reach a deeper place in our hearts.

Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to reflect on the life you have in Christ. Our prayer is that all who are part of the household of faith will draw near to their Lord and will be thoroughly prepared for the glorious celebration of Easter morning!

We are looking for 4-6 hosts to open their homes once a week starting the week of March 1. Please contact Marie Fritzberg at fritzbergs@comcast.net if you’d like to host.

This also poses a perfect opportunity for existing small groups to add new members. Please let Marie know if this is your desire as well.

Individual sign ups will take place on the Sundays in February leading up to Lent. Sign up sheets will be located in the foyer outside the Fellowship Hall.