Welcoming Ash Wednesday

It's Tuesday night and we just wrapped up our Lenten preparations.   Part of what I appreciate about our social media age is the gift of discovering websites, blogs, and articles with so many rich ideas on every conceivable topic.  In particular, cyberspace is replete with amazing resources when it comes to observing Lent.    What I find challenging is narrowing it all down, simplifying, and being able to focus on just the necessities and not get too carried away.      At the moment our plans are low-maintenance but God-willing, still spirit-filled.    Tonight we set up a humble little Lenten altar that will be our focal point for these 40+ days.  

  

The items include:
Silver Ecce Homo depiction of Christ
A jar for almsgiving
Stations of the Cross booklet
Various prayer cards to be randomly drawn at dinner time

We also included "Writing on the Rock," an idea from the book "Celebrating Saints and Seasons."  Here's how it works.

Beginning tomorrow, we will also refrain from uttering the word "Alleluia" in church until Resurrection Sunday.   I love the depth and meaning behind why we do it.  After reading about the significance of omitting the word, we wrote it on the paper heart (saying we will keep the phrase written in our hearts) and then we tucked it under the rock. 

 On Easter Sunday we will roll the stone away and open our "hearts" once again to the risen Lord and the holy word that means "praise Yahweh."

If you are still contemplating what to give up (or add) for Lent, check out these "Lifeteen 25 Creative Ideas" or  "33 Things to Give Up for Lent."  Beautiful suggestions.   God bless you on our Lenten journey!   

“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to theLord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love." Joel 2: 12-13