Lent 2012

For centuries Christians from many traditions have observed the season of Lent. It is a time for new converts to be instructed in the faith in preparation for baptism and for mature believers to seek a deeper relationship with the Lord.

At CF, Lent is a time of both personal and communal renewal and growth. Individual believers are encouraged to withdraw into the wilderness with Jesus by taking on a temporary limitation and adding spiritual practices to foster a deeper communion with God. It is an opportunity to take stock of your spiritual condition in light of the gospel and seek a greater influence of the Holy Spirit. It is a time of preparation for reflecting on Christ’s suffering and death during the Holy Week and his victorious resurrection on Easter.

It is crucial to keep in mind that the goal of Lent is not to observe rituals or take part in programs. The goal is to pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus. The main question is: What will help you get closer to the Lord? Here are some ideas.

Limit: Just as Jesus limited himself for our sake, we also give something up for him. While Lent is an excellent time to repent of particular sins, we should give up something good or neutral. Fasting from things that have significant influence over us sharpens our spiritual attention and makes us more dependent on God. Here are some things you should consider giving up: TV or other entertainment; coffee, pop or other stimulants; meat or sweets; alcohol; sex; sleep; money, etc.

Add: Pursue additional spiritual disciplines: prayer walks, Bible reading, acts of mercy, daily devotional reading, etc. Focus on a particular area of growth such as humility or controlling your tongue. Do more spiritual activities with your family or friends.

Join: There will be many different things for you to participate in at CF. Join the baptism/membership class. Commit to a weekly home group and discuss Sunday sermons with others. Share what God is teaching you in the worship service. Attend the Sunday Night Thing. Volunteer at a food pantry with a few friends from church.

Pastor Sergei

Join us

We worship, pray, sing, learn, talk and eat every Sunday at 11am.

• Our address: 3425 N. Damen Ave. | Chicago, Illinois 60618
• For more information email info@ChurchinRoscoeVillage.org or call 773.348.3450