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Welcome to New Members, Ash Wednesday, Valentine's Day (Pastoral Emphasis for 2/14)

We recently had two new members who have completed their NMO and elder interviews. Today, I’d like to welcome Sis. Polly Adu and Sis. Joselyne Cepeda 



Our next Virtual Prayer Rally will be held on Tuesday at 7:00pm on WebEx. If you cannot attend, please submit your prayer request online. 

Ash Wednesday is this Wednesday. Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads as a reminder of human mortality. Ashes are also a sign of mourning and repentance to God. 

Normally we would anoint with ashes after Bible Study but this year we’ll be doing a drive-thru ash anointing from 12 to 2pm and 4:30 to 6pm. Drive by the front door of the church and one of the elders will be there to anoint you (wearing a mask with gloves or sanitized hands). 

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent (40 days excluding Sundays) where we’ll be doing a church-wide fast. Fasting is the voluntary act of abstaining from something for the purpose of growing in self-discipline. As Christians, we find our security and satisfaction in Christ. Therefore, we can give up something because Christ means more to us than whatever we are giving up. We ask everyone to join us for a partial fast for Lent. 

A partial fast is where you choose to abstain from certain foods and drinks instead of complete abstinence. Some of you may choose to fast from television, social media, phone, video games, hobbies, etc. This will help you free up some time to spend in prayer and reflection. 

Today is Valentine’s Day. Whether you are "boo’ed" up or not, I would like to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day. You are loved.  A man or woman may give you a lot of gifts but only God loved you so much that He would give His Son to die for your sins. 

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