Good afternoon!

Today we are almost one week into the holy season of Lent.  If you have chosen to adopt a spiritual discipline during this season—such as giving up a favorite food or hobby, adding an extra devotional time to your daily schedule, or decluttering your home—I hope it’s off to a good start!  And if you haven’t adopted a Lenten discipline yet, it’s never too late: if you’re still looking for a way to enhance your spiritual life this Lent, we have plenty of opportunities for you at Auburn First UMC!  Our choir and adult Sunday School class are always welcoming new members—choir practices at 6:30 on Wednesday evenings, and Sunday School meets at 9:00 on Sunday mornings.

We also have also begun our Second Annual Lenten Film Festival, which is the perfect spiritual practice for movie buffs! Each Sunday afternoon during Lent we are gathering at church to watch a movie together (upcoming flicks include “The Truman Show”, “Life is Beautiful”, and “Risen”, among others), and then we share a meal while we discuss the film’s religious themes.  All are welcome to join this fun and informative group, and free childcare is always provided!

In addition, we have also begun a new Lenten worship series, based on the book “More Than Enough: Living Abundantly in a Culture of Excess” by Rev. Lee Hull Moses.  As we continue on our journey through Lent, we will be focusing on decluttering our spiritual lives, re-examining our busy schedules, grappling with injustice and inequality, and learning to live abundantly by embracing simplicity!  Here’s a preview of what’s coming up:

3/12—Much Ado About Money

(Reminder: we are worshipping at the Presbyterian Church at 11:15 this week!)

3/19—The Blessing and Curse of “Stuff”

3/26—Holy Relaxation

4/2—Loving Your Neighbors

4/9—Put On Your Work Boots!

See you at the Presbyterian church next Sunday for an awesome ecumenical service!  Have a blessed week!