A View from the Pews March 2026As we enter the season of Lent, we are invited into a quieter, deeper rhythm of faith.🌿 Lent is not simply a time marked on the church calendar; it is a sacred journey of the heart. In these forty days, we walk with intention—pausing amid the noise of everyday life to listen more closely for God’s voice, to reflect more honestly on our lives, and to turn again toward the grace that is always waiting for us.Lent reminds us that faith is not only found in moments of celebration, but also in stillness, humility, and renewal. It is a season that gently calls us to let go of what weighs us down and to make space for prayer, generosity, and compassion. Through small acts of devotion and quiet reflection, we rediscover the hope that sustains us.As a church community, we travel this path together. We encourage one another, pray for one another, and remember that every step— whether easy or difficult—draws us closer to the love at the heart of our faith. May this Lenten season be a time of grace for each of us, a time to grow, to heal, and to prepare our hearts for the joy and promise that lies ahead.Reflections on Lent: Not Just Giving Up, But Giving OutAs we enter the season of Lent, many of us begin by asking, “What should I give up?” We think of fasting from sweets, social media, or small daily comforts. These practices can be meaningful, helping us reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and draw closer to God. But what if Lent is also an invitation—not just to give something up—but to give something out?The prophet Isaiah reminds us of the kind of fast that truly honours God:“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice... It is not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?” (Isaiah 58:6–7)Lent is not only about self-denial; it is about self-giving. When we give out kindness, encouragement, generosity, and forgiveness, we reflect the heart of Christ. Jesus teaches us:“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)Perhaps this year, alongside giving something up, we might also commit to giving something out—our time to someone who is lonely, our patience to a struggling coworker, our resources to someone in need, or our compassion to those who feel unseen.The Apostle Paul encourages us:“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)Lent is a season of preparation, but it is also a season of possibility. As we journey toward Easter, may we open our hands—not only in surrender—but in generosity. In giving out love, we discover anew the joy and hope that Christ gives to us all.May this Lenten season shape our hearts to look more like His.By Paula DarkinThe SummonerSummoned by bells to Church, Sunday morning. A prompt, a reminder to those still yawning. “Come listen, pray, thank and share, with humility, The wonderful blessings of the Trinity.”Summoned by love to Church, Wedding morning.An invitation, a welcome to a new life that’s dawning.“Come, family and friends. Sing to the best of your ability. The bell is ringing a wish for your tranquility.”Summoned by death to Church, funeral morning.A tolling of goodbye accompanies the mourning. “Come, gentle soul, redeemed to join the Saints fraternity. Take your place with Christ, for all eternity.”Summoned by the people, Dedication morning.A celebration for your new adorning.“Come, precious bell, take your place in antiquity. Ancient, but timeless, like The Christ, in mystery.”Author: Loraine Rutherford
