Many things are happening this month in the life of our parish. Our church basement is currently under construction as we replace the damaged flooring from last spring’s sewer backup.
Our annual Chili Cookoff was held on Sunday, February 1, with twelve chili cooks competing in three categories: Traditional, Hot & Spicy, and Non-Traditional. The event was well attended! Thank you to Sharon Glagola for leading this effort, and to all the volunteers who supported the event by bringing baked goods, setting up, serving chili, and helping with cleanup.
The Halos will be hosting a Spaghetti Dinner on Friday, February 6, and we look forward to another great turnout. On February 15, Meatfare Sunday, we will hold our annual parish meeting. Please share any topics you would like included under New Business prior to the meeting so that appropriate research and preparation can be completed in advance.
As we begin the sacred journey of Orthodox Lent, let us approach this season with open hearts and a spirit of humility. Great Lent calls us not only to prayer and fasting, but also to active service and charity rooted in love. When we serve others and give charitably during this sacred season, our fasting becomes meaningful, our prayers become embodied, and our repentance bears fruit in love for our neighbor.
Forgiveness Sunday (February 22) holds a special and sacred place in the life of our Church, calling each of us to begin Great Lent reconciled with God and with one another. Our presence at the service of this day is not simply a matter of attendance, but an act of humility and love, as we ask and offer forgiveness face to face. By coming together in worship, we witness that forgiveness is not abstract or private, but lived within the community of the Church. As we bow to one another and hear the words “Forgive me,” we open our hearts to healing, unity, and a renewed commitment to walk the Lenten journey together.
Brothers and Sisters, Forgive me, a Sinner.
Darlene
