An Invitation to a Holy Lent
Those who choose to answer Jesus’s challenge to follow are called disciples. It is a call to be set apart, challenged, and taught so that we can see and understand the mission of Jesus and play our part in his great work of transforming our world into the kingdom of God. Ultimately, being a disciple is more than simply learning a few simple truths or accepting a body of religious teaching. It is a lifestyle in which we learn. grow, and practice the way of Christ in such a way that others are able to see Christ dwelling in us.
LENT is a special opportunity for us to learn about discipleship—the pattern of life we need to establish for ourselves to make this lifestyle possible. This effort is never a “once and done” reality but a practice that helps deepen our relationship with Jesus each time we return to it. Like many wise teachers have taught over the centuries, discipleship is a process of examining oneself, taking stock, and simply beginning again.
Whether you are a “newbie” to the faith, or someone who has been at this practice for a long time, or even someone who is simply curious about what this Christian “thing” is all about, this is a time for you. Listen to this invitation taken from the Celtic liturgy we celebrate at St. Luke’s:
This is the table, not of the Church, but of the Lord.
It is made ready for those who love him and for those who want to love him more.
So come, you who have much faith and you who have little,
Come, you who have been here often, and you who have not been here long,
Come, you who have tried to follow and you who have failed.
Come, because it is the Lord who invites you now.
It is his will that those who want him should meet him here.
This is Jesus’s invitation to you this Lent. We hope this is what you hear in our voices here at St. Luke’s.
The service schedule for Lent is as follows:
Ash Wednesday, March 5
12:05 PM Holy Eucharist with Distribution of Ashes
7:00 PM Holy Eucharist with Distribution of Ashes
Sundays in Lent
5:00 PM Saturday Vigil Eucharist – “Rite III”
Celtic, Taizé, other less formal celebrations in The Lady Chapel
8:00 AM Holy Eucharist (Recited)
10:30 AM Holy Eucharist (Choral)
Wednesdays in Lent
10:00 AM Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing
Thursdays in Lent
10:00 AM Online Bible Study
Join Father Zwifka and others for a Bible study on one or more of the readings for the following Sunday each Thursday at 10:00 AM. Information on each study and the links to our “Virtual Page Room “ (ZOOM) are found weekly on our website and in the bulletin.
5:30 – 7:30 PM Finding Stillness: A Short Course in Christian Mindfulness
This year’s weekly Lenten program offers a unique opportunity to deepen your spiritual connection through intentional practices that align heart, mind, and soul with the presence of God.
Christian mindfulness is a spiritual discipline that focuses on cultivating an awareness of God’s presence in every moment of life. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, it encourages believers to “be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). By integrating prayer, meditation, and reflective practices, Christian mindfulness helps us to slow down, focus on the divine, and respond to life with grace and love.
Each week, we will explore a different theme of Christian mindfulness through scripture, guided meditation, group reflection, and practical exercises. Whether you are new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your spiritual practice, this program is designed to be accessible and enriching for all.
While registration is not required, it is appreciated to help us in planning for the suppers. You may register at the form here or by calling (717-272-8251) or emailing (admin@stlukeslebanon.org) the parish office.
If you can contribute something for the suppers (soup, bread, or salad), please sign up here.
Monday through Friday in Lent
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Trinity Chapel in The Parish Hall is open for quiet prayer, meditation, and reflection
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available with any member of the clergy in our parish by appointment. Contact Father Zwifka directly at rector@stlukeslebanon.org, or calling the parish office (717)272-8251).