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The central symbol of the Christian faith is the cross; and yet, not too many Christians pause to consider the claim that this symbol makes upon our lives. We hang it around our necks and use it to adorn our walls and clothing, viewing it more as a fashion statement than as a declaration of the radical love of God shown in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The season of Lent offers us a unique and important opportunity to reflect on this central symbol of our faith. The forty days leading up to our celebration of Easter are designed to help us grow in our lives of faith and discipleship. This year, we’ll do this by coming to a greater understanding of the claim that the cross makes upon our lives.
You are invited to use this Lenten season to actively reflect on the meaning of the cross through our mid-week worship opportunities, and conversation and study in our Social Networks, as well as daily devotion and prayer. See a listing of upcoming opportunities below.
This year’s Lenten theme is drawn from the book, Making Sense of the Cross, by David Lose. This clever publication sorts through much of the confusion regarding the cross and helps readers experience the power of the cross for their lives.
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Lenten Daily Devotions
Daily Lenten devotions are available via email. Sign up to receive the devotions.
A Gift for You
Every household that participates in this year’s Wednesday evening Lenten worship series will receive a special hand-crafted cross. These crosses are designed to be placed on your kitchen table or somewhere in your home to serve as a devotional center for your Lenten reflections. Many thanks to John Borgelt and Ken Stenzel for their craftsmanship!
Pictures Wanted!
Throughout the season of Lent, we’d like for you to share your photos of the crosses you see when you’re out and about. Perhaps it’s a steeple, or a wall hanging, or a tree that is shaped like a cross. Snap a picture with your smartphone and post it on the Holy Cross Facebook page. Each week, we’ll use your photos during Wednesday evening worship.
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Wednesdays in Lent February 29- March 28:
Each Wednesday evening, Holy Cross will offer a variety of ministries and activities to enrich your Lenten experience. Activities include worship, Social Networks, Confirmation and K-6 Activities. TLC Nursery care is available.
Lenten Soup Suppers 5:15-6:15
Soup Supper Fellowship returns for Lent, with cooking provided by professional caterer and Holy Cross mission partner Craig Gerwick. The dinners will be served from 5:15-6:15 each Wednesday starting Feb. 29 through March 28. We are suggesting an offering of $4 per person to cover the cost of the meal.
Each week’s meal will include soup; bread, crackers or chips; fruit or veggie tray and dessert. We will also have fun sandwich supplies for little ones who don’t want soup.
Soup Supper menus:
Feb. 29: Chicken enchilada soup and beef vegetable soup
March 7: Baked potato soup and chicken noodle soup
March 14: Potato bar, chili, and cabbage soup
March 21: Ham and bean soup and taco soup
March 28: Jambalaya (Creole stew) and tomato-basil soup
Lenten Worship 6:30-7:00
The Holy Cross community will gather at 6:30 each Wednesday for a service of Evening Prayer, music and Scripture. As part of the service, Pastor Mike will lead us in an explanation of the meaning of the cross for our daily lives.
Social Networks 7:00-8:00
Social Networks are groups of 6 to 8 people who gather at Holy Cross for conversation and reflection every Wednesday from 7:00 – 8:00. Beginning February 29, the Social Networks will discuss the evening’s worship theme. There’s no need to have prior knowledge or experience. Just bring your questions and your openness to talk about matters of the cross and resurrection!
First Communion Instruction
First communion classes will take place on March 7, 21, and 28 from 7:00-8:00, as a part of our Wednesday evening activities. Celebration of first communion will take place at Maundy Thursday worship on April 5. All second graders’ families are invited to these classes. All others are welcome, as well, including older children who are not yet communing and younger children who have expressed an interest in receiving communion. Please contact Amy Viets if you plan to attend, 491-8022 or AmyViets@holycross-elca.org.
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