A season of preparation

Lent is the forty-day period (excluding Sundays) before Good Friday. It is traditionally a time of self-reflection, repentance (literally "turning around," or returning to God), and preparation for the events of Holy Week.

​No, you don't have to give something up during Lent, but you might choose to do so as a spiritual practice. This season is reminiscent of Jesus' forty days in the wilderness, when he fasted and overcame temptation. Lent provides a great opportunity to take on spiritual disciplines and grow deeper in faith. 

The color of Lent is purple, a color of royalty. We remember that even though the cross appears to be a defeat, in overcoming death, Jesus is truly our king. 

Return to indoor church worship services

The Minnesota COVID numbers are down, allowing some school classrooms to open again, along with restaurants and movie theaters. Glen Cary Lutheran will open for worship on Ash Wednesday. Services will continue on Sundays and Wednesdays during the season of Lent. Sunday worship will begin on February 21 at 9:30 a.m. Communion will be part of every Sunday worship service.  For those in the high-risk category, participating in worship online is recommended. The services will also be available online on Facebook or in our Worship Archive.  

Ash Wednesday Worship
​February 17th, 2020
​7:00 p.m 

Wednesdays in Lent
Tough Talks 6:00 p.m. 
Worship 7:00 p.m. 

On Ash Wednesday, we remember that "we are dust, and to dust we shall return" (Genesis 3:19). We confess our sins, confront our own mortality, and eagerly anticipate the new life we receive in Christ. These powerful themes are brought to life as ashes are placed on the foreheads of each individual. 

In this challenging season, we need the support of community, whether in-person, online, or over the phone. We gather as a community for study, conversation, prayer, and worship. Services will be  opportunities to slow down and reflect on the person of Jesus. Join us on Wednesdays February 24 and March 3, 10, 17, and 24.

Resources

• Praying in Color:  This website includes templates you  can download/print to mark the Lenten Journey. You can keep track of prayer needs, daily devotions, or simply color in each box to count down to Easter.  
• "Game On!" Lenten Devotional  for Families:  Short Scripture readings, reflection, and prayer geared toward elementary-aged children and their families.
• "Awesome  Mystery" Lenten Devotional 2021 from Luther Seminary: Read a short Scripture, reflection, and prayer every day in the season of Lent to refocus on Jesus. 
• Why and how do we use ashes on Ash Wednesday? (ELCA)
• LiturgyGram: A Little Bit About Lent (ELCA Worship)