From the Rector
LENT
This particular season of the Church Year is ancient. It was a time set aside, just before the celebration of Easter to prepare folks who were looking to be baptized. It was also a time when people who, due to serious sin, did penance and ‘repented of their sins’ and at the Easter celebrations were allowed back into the community.
It’s a time for us to consider some realities. first and foremost, Baptism! I’m already baptized, I was a baby (for most of us). Let’s move on…
I agree, let’s. Our personal baptism is a commitment to ministry. It’s fun to look it up in the Book of Common prayer:
“…Who are the Ministers of the Church?” The answer, “The ministers of the Church are lay persons… The ministry of lay persons is to represent Christ and his Church, to bear witness to him wherever they may be; and, according to the gifts given them, to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world; and to take their place in the life, worship and governance of the Church.”
That is a far cry form having a ‘names day’ for the baby. Lent is a time to revisit the serious ministry you have. Repent if you are not living it. All of us are called into this work, just because someone is ‘ordained’ doesn’t mean the don’t have this basic obligation, we’re all in this together!
What about our sins? What about them?
If you’re fulfilling you ministry as a baptized Christian, then you’re already changing your life and getting ready for Easter and getting ready to step into the light of eternal life.
Father Jack 716-400-9670 jack.marshall@stmarksop.org