Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

Lent is fast approaching. Often, I am amazed by how quickly time passes…less than two weeks left until Ash Wednesday.

This year we decided to try something new. Episcopal Relief & Development has usually had a single author for the Lenten devotional in previous years. In 2011, our Lenten Meditations were written by a group of 10 leaders from across The Episcopal Church. We are very appreciative that they were willing to take time out of their busy schedules to contribute. The reflections and insights have been a wonderful blessing, and we are extremely grateful.

Our writers come from a variety of theological perspectives and ministries, representing all parts of the United States. A seminary dean, two bishops, an editor of an Episcopal journal, parish clergy, and lay leaders—all sharing in one Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:5). All committed to Episcopal Relief & Development’s mission of transforming lives and healing a hurting world.

Throughout the many weeks and months spent developing the 2011 Lenten Meditations, I have read the work of these writers over and over. Each time, there have been new blessings. I thought I could go back and find one selection to quote as a sample. No dice—it was impossible to choose just one. I think the best approach is for you to see for yourself by ordering the devotional or downloading a copy and digging in starting March 9th—Ash Wednesday. You can also have the meditations delivered to your inbox each day throughout Lent. Visit our Lenten Resources page to sign up.

During this holy season of Lent, I hope you will take time to read and reflect on the thoughts on these evangelists and teachers. For me, they shed new light on the lectionary readings and the ways in which I can act to reach out to people in need.