Preparation for Holy Week and Healing the World



Add Christ's Entry into Jerusalem, Albrecht Dürer, 1511. Web Gallery of Artcaption



As we prepare for Palm Sunday and Holy Week, it’s an auspicious time to ask, “What is really important?” What makes life full and meaningful? What was so central for Jesus that he was willing to offer up his life?

Two answers have filled my heart and mind lately: First, the love (grace) of God, showered in life, the universe, and the Way of loving discipleship. Second, the God-given responsibility given to each disciple to repair the human and nonhuman (earthly) community.

Pope Francis has stirred people throughout the world with his call for addressing the needs of the poor and the needs of creation. (The two are always closely related, as the poor suffer most immediately from environmental degradation.)

Jesus’ called for simplicity (“if you have two coats, give one away”), care for the poor (“if you give to the least of these, you give to me”), and love of creation (“look at the lilies”).

Let us hope that the church heeds this call; I’m very moved that Ascension has discerned (through Task Team 2) the same areas in which God calls us to continue and grow: poverty (both physical and spiritual), care for the Earth, and fellowship with the most vulnerable (children, youth, the elderly).

I will look for you this Saturday (3/23), Mud Morning (9:30 am to 11 am), when we will envision more specifically God’s future for Ascension. This is an important part of our long-range planning! Bring potluck pastries, and wear your books, because we will go for a meditative walk in the woods afterward. Childcare provided by Rachel Valliere.

Blessings to each of you as we enter into Holy Week together.
Pr. Nancy