Lenten Lunch Schedule

"I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one--as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me." John 17:21

We are heading into Lent, the forty-day season of repentance, prayer, and self-denial that brings us through the cross of Jesus to the empty tomb of Easter. As Jesus himself approached the cross, we are told that he went into a garden to pray, and that his prayer concluded with this hope for the church "let them all be one, just as you and I are one."

American Christians have not always been particularly good at being "one." We have more denominations and flavors of Christianity than any nation on earth. We all insist that Jesus Christ is the risen Lord, but that hasn't always made us a witness for unity in the world.

In the spirit of unity, several Crestview churches will come together for a weekly observance during Lent. On Thursdays during Lent, starting on February 18 at New Bethel United Methodist Church, we will be gathering to share a meal and a message together.

I pray that you will consider being a part of this time together as we gather to pray, hear a word and share a meal.

Lenten Lunch Schedule:

Thursday, February 18: New Bethel UMC (host) Rev. Mark Broadhead Speaking

Thursday, February 25: Our Lady of Victory (host) Rev. Michael Precht Speaking

Thursday, March 3: First UMC (host) Msgr. Michael Tugwell Speaking

Thursday, March 10: First Presbyterian (host) Rev. Gary Jones Speaking

Lunch Schedule:

11:45 AM—Gathering time

12:00 PM—Opening prayer from minister of host church

12:05 PM—Lunch is served

12:30 PM—Lenten devotional from guest preacher (people can continue to eat during this time)

12:55 PM—Closing prayer from minister of host church

Reservations can be made on your grace note in all Sunday services.