Ash Wednesday began much like it has in years past, with Ashes to Go - now called Ash and Dash - offering a moment of sacred pause in the midst of the day. Many came seeking that familiar sign of mortality, repentance, and spiritual reflection, embracing the call to turn their hearts toward God.

By evening, the aroma of tomato sauce and garlic bread filled the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and conversation as our Student Ministry hosted a spaghetti dinner fundraiser. This meal was more than just food - it was an opportunity to support students in their faith journey, raising funds for scholarships to attend UM ARMY camp this summer. UM ARMY is a Christ-centered mission experience where students not only serve communities but also deepen their faith in a meaningful and transformative way.

Under the leadership of Emmie Howard, Student Ministry Director, students decorated, cooked, served, and cleaned - all with a heart of service - raising over $1,400 for camp scholarships. Their dedication was a beautiful example of faith in action. They are still taking donations. You can donate here.

During the Ash Wednesday worship service, Pastor Angie invited us to reflect on the practice of “burying the Alleluia.” Should our worship and prayer look the same during Lent as they do throughout the rest of the year? Yes and no. Lent is not about pretending Christ is still in the tomb, nor should our worship be shrouded in mourning. Instead, the season invites us to pause, to rest, to reflect—much like we do when we carefully put away Christmas decorations, knowing the joy of bringing them back out at the right time. This intentional resting allows us to experience renewal, to appreciate what comes before and after, and to cultivate a rhythm that deepens our relationship with God.

As part of the service, the congregation was invited to write prayers in a community journal and to place on note cards the burdens they wished to release—sins, struggles, or anything weighing on their hearts. At the end of the service, we gathered outside as those note cards were burned, symbolizing the freedom and grace found in Christ.

There was a palpable sense of lightness, renewal, and joy as people departed. What began as a solemn day of reflection ended as a beautiful night of community, worship, and prayer—a reminder that even in seasons of repentance, God’s love and grace remain abundant.

Pastor Angie has been hosting a series of Prayer Bead workshops, providing attendees with a meaningful way to enhance their spiritual practice. The workshops have been well-received, and additional sessions may be added based on interest.

Many participants have already been using prayer beads, and the opportunity to share new prayers and methods has been a source of joy and inspiration. These workshops aim to deepen personal prayer experiences and introduce new ways to connect with faith through this ancient practice.

During Lent, Pastor Angie will be incorporating a special devotional designed for use with prayer beads. The devotional, We Are Beloved: A Lenten Journey with Protestant Prayer Beads by Kristen Vincent, offers a structured and reflective approach to the Lenten season. Those who currently use prayer beads or are interested in beginning the practice are invited to join in this journey.

This devotional can be used individually or with a group of friends, making it a flexible and meaningful addition to one's Lenten discipline. Anyone interested in participating or seeking more information is encouraged to reach out to Pastor Angie for further details.

Celebrate the joy of Easter and help adorn our sanctuary with beautiful lilies! You can purchase a lily in honor or memory of a loved one, creating a meaningful tribute that will be shared on our church Facebook page, Easter bulletin, and website.

Your donation not only adds to the beauty of our Easter service but also serves as a heartfelt symbol of love and remembrance.

Secure your lily today and be part of this special tradition. Order here. All orders are due by April 15

This summer, we’re revamping our children’s and student ministries to create engaging, faith-filled experiences for kids and teens! These new groups will officially launch on May 25.

Children’s Director Debbie Shaw, Director of Student Ministries Emmie Howard, and Children’s Ministry Coordinator Abby Jensen are working together to develop dynamic programs that foster faith, community, and discipleship.

What’s Changing? (Starting May 25)

Sundays:

• Grades K-5 – No changes, continue meeting as usual.

• 6th Grade – Now meeting in Room 106.

• Grades 7-12 – Continue meeting at 10 & 11 am in the youth building.

Weeknights:

• Grades 5-8 – Tuesdays, 6-8 pm in the youth building.

• Grades 9-12 – Wednesdays, 6-8 pm in the youth building.

  
  

We are thrilled about these updates and the new opportunities for connection, discipleship, and fun! Stay tuned for more details, including group names and themes, as we get closer to May 25.

Have questions or want to get involved? Reach out to Debbie, Emmie, or Abby.