Church is always filled to the brim on Ash Wednesday, with people standing in the back, kids fidgeting in the pews, and people making time to start the Lenten season. But why? You can make the simple argument that people come because they get something, an outward sign of ashes, but I think it may…
Category: Liturgical Year
An Advent Playlist: Waiting in Wonder
In December, slivers of Christmas are everywhere, a few presents still to buy, pieces of wrapping paper all over the house, beautiful lights around the neighborhood, the intoxicating scent of our Christmas tree, our simple paper nativity set, the empty waiting stockings, and our advent candles flickering each night at dinner. Everywhere there is a little, often sweet and…
Jesus Got Up: Happy Easter
Happy Easter! I hope you are having an Easter filled with family, joy, and Jesus. We have been gifted with truly beautiful time around these parts. Our wiggly two-year old was able to attend Holy Thursday and Easter mass, and I am always amazed by how much of these celebrations she is able to absorb….
Examination of Conscience… What role am I playing in Holy Week?
In our church home on Palm Sunday we always hear the passion gospel as a dramatic reading. This interactive (and long) gospel helps to begin Holy Week with the reality of Christ crucified. In this script format, the congregation typically plays the part of the crowds. I have to admit though, I cringe each year as the…
Free 2016 Liturgical Calendar
Ya’ll it has been crazy-town around here lately. I have a backlog of 20 half-finished blog posts that I will attempt to finish as things settle down at work and home. As our schedules have been full, I am thankful for the few small things our family has implemented this year to improve our organization. A few months a…
A Lenten Plan: Something to give, sacrifice, study, and build up relationships
Lent begins Wednesday, sneaking up on us! Each year I appreciate the rhythm of the liturgical year even more. Somehow when lent rolls around each winter, I find I am in need of this season to challenge me and push me closer toward Christ. As I go into Ash Wednesday, I am committed to chipping…