Recapture spiritual health in Lenten season

For centuries, Christians have used the Lenten season to fortify spiritual health. The Christian church has developed a variety of “disciplines” or spiritual “workouts” to help people renew their personal spiritual life. These also allow people to prepare for baptism and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter.

Spiritual insights and habits gained during the six weeks of Lent can then be applied very successfully to the rest of life through the miracle Jesus Christ’s resurrection.

Christ Lutheran Church in Superior invites people to rediscover some of these helpful disciplines during this Lenten season.

In addition to the regular 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday services, two midweek Vespers services are available each Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. during Lent. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday — Feb. 13.

Week by week you are invited to meditate on the incredible events and personalities through which God first brought His saving love into the world. Midweek Lenten services continue every through March 20. The theme is “God’s Good and Perfect Gifts,” and examines the passion and death of Jesus through the insights of the prophet Isaiah. Soup and sandwich suppers are served at 5:30 p.m. every Wednesday with a free-will offering to support various mission projects.

Another Lenten option is to explore the Christian faith with Pastor Schoessow in a small group study of Christianity. This study is modeled after the ancient practice of instruction that preceded baptism into the Christian faith. Bring your thoughts and questions to this series that will stretch your faith and mind. The small group study meets at 6:30 p.m. each Tuesday in the church library. An independent home-study course is also available.

Or join a Bible study on Sunday at 9:15 am or Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Still another opportunity is to make an appointment for a “conversation with the pastor” during Lent. We make appointments to see experts in medicine for the health of our bodies and minds. You are invited to consult with our pastor about your spiritual health and use the discipline of personal confession and absolution.

Lent is an excellent time to reconnect with the ancient Christian practice of alms giving or helping those less fortunate. This year, the emphasis at Christ Lutheran is alleviating hunger. Donations for the local food shelf will be received during Lent.

The congregation hosts Ruby’s Pantry the third Thursday of each month and the youth will conduct a 30-Hour Famine in which they fast for 30 hours and gather donations to help alleviate world hunger.

Or you may wish to culture the discipline of fasting and prayer. There are numerous aids to private and personal reflection and growth during Lent. A number of free resources are available. Contact the church office for a copy.

Christ Lutheran Church is just east of the Mariner Mall at 320 N. 28th St. E. For information, call 715-398-3680.

Tags: community, religion, church