We will soon arrive at my favorite SEASON of the church year (Lent), arriving ultimately at my favorite FESTIVAL of the year (Easter). The reason for this has everything to do with one of the most important activities you and I undertake: confession and absolution.
CONFESSION WITHOUT ABSOLUTION
Ash Wednesday begins with an intentional and visual reminder of our sin. The Imposition of Ashes that begins worship on Ash Wednesday is accompanied by a more protracted and dramatic confession of sins.
In this service the presiding minister (pastor) REMINDS worshippers that God is merciful and does, indeed, forgive sins. But evident mostly because of its absence is any clear ABSOLUTION. (i.e. “As a called and ordained service of Christ I forgive you your sins.”) A good part of the discipline of Lent is WAITING, mostly for a clear statement of the forgiveness of our sins.
We prepare for each Divine Service (communion service) with the order for confession and absolution: except during Lent. The clear absolution is replaced by an “assurance” that God does, indeed, forgive sin.
CONFESSION AND INDIVIDUAL ABSOLUTION
The beginning of the liturgy on Maundy Thursday closes a “bracket” that the Imposition of Ashes opens nearly 40 days before. The pastor begins the liturgy with an exhortation, a clear reminder of the sin that otherwise separates us from God. Worshippers are then invited to approach the altar and receive, individually, a clear absolution of their sin: “In the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ I forgive you all of your sin.”
- On Ash Wednesday individual worshippers approach the altar to receive a reminder (a cross of ashes on the forehead) of the death that comes through the presence of sin.
- For 40 days (the season of Lent) worshippers receive only a reminder of God’s mercy and love, undertaking intentional disciplines (taking on or giving up something very specific) during these days.
- On Maundy Thursday individual worshippers approach the altar to receive a reminder (a cross of oil on the forehead) of the forgiveness they receive because of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
All of this is intended to highlight the joy of Easter: because Christ has been raised so we are raised to new life in Christ!
Read more from St. John's
Save the date: Family Reunion Sunday
Check out the plan for the Family Reunion Sunday on August 30th, beginning with worship at 10am. To check how you can help, the list of needed volunteers is also included here.
Blood Drive at St. John’s
Sign up now to donate blood on Family Reunion Sunday, as the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis and faces an emergency shortage.
Interviews Beginning for the Associate Pastor Call Process
The Call Process is moving forward as four names have been selected to be interviewed. More information on the plans for that interview process are shared here. If you would like to attend the…
The Story of the Stained Glass
Check out this series of articles describing the teachings behind the stained glass windows at St. John’s! This month, Pastor shares the meaning behind a small group of the disciples.