As we begin Lent the bell choir will lead us in worship.

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Lent started on Wednesday. It’s a season in the church when we slow down, take a breath, and pay attention. We remember the way Jesus lived — his sacrifice, his servant heart, and his steady walk toward the cross — and we try to practice some of that same spirit in our own lives.

During these six weeks, some people give something up, and others take something on as a way to grow spiritually. I’d encourage you to consider trying something. Maybe it’s giving up gossip. Maybe it’s stepping into a volunteer role. Maybe it’s choosing a new habit that helps you focus on what really matters.

One simple option is a prayer and journaling practice. Each week we’ll share a short prayer and a journal prompt on our website, and we’ll also have printed copies available at worship. Set aside a little time during the week to pray and reflect. Write a few thoughts. Notice what comes up.

These small, steady practices shape us over time. They help us build the strength we need to set healthy boundaries, choose what’s life-giving, and resist the things that pull us away from who God is calling us to be.

If you need some help with deciding on a discipleship practice please reach out! I hope whatever you choose to pursue this season it shapes your faith and deepens your spiritual journey.

Blessings,

Pastor Eilidh

PS: Here's the link to the reciepe I used for the sweetheart luncheon! 

Each week during Lent, we’ll introduce a new devotional to complement our Lenten series, The Dirty Work of Hope.

Join us as we come alongside Julie Zimmerman & loved ones in honoring Kay's life and legacy. 

Watch a video about Homeslessness with Missions Team and engage in discussion after. 

Celebrate Easter by taking home a colorful 4-inch spring flower for $10 after worship on Easter Sunday. Flowers may be dedicated in honor or in memory of a loved one, and those names will be printed on Easter Sunday. To participate, contact the church office or leave a note with your payment in the offering plate. Orders must be received by March 18, so be sure to sign up soon!

Souper Bowl Food Drive Challenge unites churches in generosity and service

Just as the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots on football’s biggest stage, friendly competition unfolded off the field through this year’s Souper Bowl Food Drive Challenge.

The Pacific Northwest Conference of The United Methodist Church claimed the win in food collection, gathering an impressive 19,751 items for food-providing ministries, while the New England Conference collected 7,804 items. New England, however, led in financial generosity, raising $16,379.92 compared to $10,411 from the Pacific Northwest.

Rev. Megan Stowe, district superintendent for the Commonwealth West District in New England, shared, “Congratulations, Seahawks fans, on the game.”

Together, churches in both conferences demonstrated outstanding generosity, good-natured rivalry, and a shared commitment to addressing hunger in their communities. This is a victory worth celebrating for its compassion, collaboration, and the lives it will impact.

Continue reading this story on the Greater Northwest News website.

grace&peace