Easter probably already has your attention as you plan your sermon, think of ways to maximize the high-traffic day and consider your follow-up with first-time guests. But what about Lent? Have you considered the ways you can use the 40 days leading up to Easter to reach people in your community?
Traveling Ashes
On Ash Wednesday in Springfield, Mo., you can get your ashes and your coffee at the same place. King’s Way United Methodist Church recognized the start of Lent by administering ashes at the local Dancing Mule coffee shop. The public place afforded them the opportunity to share about Jesus and their church.
Carbon Fast
Instead of fasting from sweets, TV or spending, members of First Churches of Northampton, Mass., participated in a “Take the Smudge” campaign, abstaining from the use of fossil fuels. In asking others to do the same, the church shared its concern for God’s creation while recognizing Lent as a time of reflection and self-sacrifice.
Village Procession
Katonah United Methodist Church in Katonah, N.Y., meets its community, including other area churches, at the town’s old train station (now a restaurant). From there, members process through the village as an ecumenical blessing of the palms—witnessing to many along the way.
