THE ECLECTIC CLERIC - “What’s for Lent?”

The season of Lent isn’t something that Unitarian Universalists generally pay a lot of attention to. We tend to think of it (when we think of it as all) as six dreary weeks separating school vacations, the period of time between Mardi Gras and Easter where nothing really happens, and nobody really expects to have much fun anyway.

But within the traditional Christian liturgical calendar, the 40 day period between Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday is a season of renewal: a time for prayer and fasting, study and sacrifice (which means, literally, “to make sacred”) during which new “converts to the faith” would prepare themselves (like Jesus in the Wilderness) for their own “rebirth” (through baptism) at the beginning of Holy Week.

Personally I’ve always been attracted to the idea of a disciplined season of religious growth and learning. Lent isn’t about giving something up; it’s about trying something new, and learning more about the life of faith in the process. In that spirit, I always try to do something a little special for the churches I serve, which usually turns out to be a great experience for me as well.

Those last few weeks before Easter are also a great time to bring a friend to church. On February 10th UU musician Jim Scott will be leading our worship service, so if you know of someone you think might enjoy being part of First Parish, and have been looking for an excuse to invite them to one of our services, this is your big chance. Feel free to reassure them that accompanying you to church one time is not a lifetime commitment, even though it might just turn out to be a life-changing experience.

When you aren’t in the habit, stepping through the doors of a place like this can feel pretty intimidating. It’s nice to have someone you know there by your side to show you the ropes. So I encourage everyone to think carefully about who you care enough about to share this meaningful part of YOUR life, and then to offer them the hospitality of our community. It might just turn out to be the most amazing gift you ever give them.

Finally, this year on Palm Sunday (which comes early this year on March 16th) we will be formally welcoming new members into our congregation here at First Parish. No immersion in water will be required (other than your usual bath or shower); all you really have to do is show up and sign the book, receive the accolades of your new co-religionists, and enjoy the delicious food afterwards. But we are also offering a series of classes during Lent that you can take beforehand in order to learn more about our faith tradition, and how to get the most out of your membership here. Please look for more information elsewhere in this newsletter, or call or e-mail me if you have any questions.

OK, so maybe Lent really IS a dreary time of year. But that’s no reason to take it personally. Rather, take advantage of this opportunity to renew your spirit and refresh your soul. And let’s enjoy one another’s company in the process.