Lenten Observations 2026
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
February 17th 6-7pm – Fellowship Hall
Back when fasting and sacrifice were the primary was in which one accessed and centered on God, the night before Lent began, people feasted on the things not allowed during the season. This included sugar, fat, and anything else that was on hand that wouldn’t last the season of Lent. Now we experience and find God in non-sacrificial ways; through acts of kindness, intentional Christ-like behaviors, spiritual disciplines, reading scripture, prayers, sowing peace, and simply spending more time communing with the Divine. HOWEVER, we still like the idea of having a Pancake Dinner with lots of sweet toppings and plenty of bacon! Join us for a church-wide meal on Shrove Tuesday and invite a friend that likes to eat!
Ash Wednesday Worship
February 18th 7pm – Sanctuary
After the celebration of Easter, Lent was the first season that grew up in the church. It was a time for folks interested in joining the church to learn about what it meant to follow Jesus and be a part of his movement. Many such programs lasted a year with Lent being the culminating part of the process where fasting and prayer led to a public decision and baptism on Easter morning. Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of this final period where one dedicated themselves to Jesus. Wholly putting trust in Jesus meant that even in death when you turn to dust, you belong to and are a part of Christ Jesus. The service highlights our dependence on God for life and eternity. From death to resurrection, from Lent to Easter, we belong to Christ Jesus our Lord. Come and explore these themes at a long cherished service where ashes on the forehead or wrist will be offered.
Lenten Prayers
Wednesdays February 25th – April 1st, 7 – 9 pm – Sanctuary
The FCCEJ Sanctuary will be open for prayer and meditation.
Seder Meal
Saturday, March 28th, 6 pm – Fellowship Hall
We are pleased to once again offer a Seder Meal during Lent. This is the Passover meal and mirrors the meal that Jesus and his disciples experienced at the last supper. During the Seder meal, we will remember the Passover story and eat dinner together. We are limited to 75 people due to space constraints; tickets will be available starting February 18. The meal is free; tickets are simply to save you a seat and ensure that we have enough food. This will replace the normal Maundy Thursday service.