You ask, WHAT IS LENT?

Once again, the Grayson County Ministerial Association is preparing for the observance of Lent. You ask, WHAT IS LENT? Lent is a special time of prayer, penance, sacrifice and good works in preparation of the celebration of Easter. Lent began as a time of preparation and of fasting for baptism by converts and then became a time of penance by all Christians.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, which lasts for 40 days, not including Sundays. Of course, the number "40" has always had special spiritual significance regarding preparation. On Mount Sinai, preparing to receive the Ten Commandments, "Moses stayed there with the Lord for 40 days and 40 nights, without eating any food or drinking any water" (Ex 34:28). Elijah walked "40 days and 40 nights" to the mountain of the Lord, Mount Horeb (another name for Sinai) (I Kgs 19:8). Most importantly, Jesus fasted and prayed for "40 days and 40 nights" in the desert before He began His public ministry (Mt 4:2).

People are encouraged "to give up something" for Lent as a sacrifice. However, an emphasis must be placed on performing spiritual works along with their sacrifice. With this in mind GCMA would like to invite everyone to join in and be a part of the weekly Lenten Lunch Services. The weekly services will be held at the Leitchfield United Methodist Church starting at noon (12:00), with Pastors from various churches across the county speaking followed by a light meal provided by their church. The service and meal are expected to last no more than an hour, so everyone is encourage to attend on their lunch break.

On Good Friday (March 29th @ 11:30) the annual Cross-Walk on the public square will be held. The cross will be marched around the public square and down to the Methodist church prior to the final service and meal.

Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to attend one or all of the services. Not only is this an opportunity to observe Lent but also an opportunity to hear messages presented by different pastors of all faiths. For more information call 259-4019 .
GCMA  Community Lenten Lunch Services 2013

DATE              DAY                            MESSAGE PROVIDED BY:            MEAL PROVIDED BY:
02/13/2012 WEDNESDAY ASH WEDNESDAY
02/21/2013 THURSDAY @ 12:00     John Whittaker                                Clarkson Baptist
02/28/2013 THURSDAY @ 12:00     Father Bryan                             St. Augustine/Benedict/Anthony
03/07/2013 THURSDAY @ 12:00     Brenda Wilson                                 1st Cumberland
03/14/2013 THURSDAY @ 12:00      Doug King                                  Leitchfield 1st Baptist
03/21/2013 THURSDAY @ 12:00      Jerry Dunaway                                       Cross Point
03/29/2013 GOOD FRIDAY @ 11:30  Cross-Walk @ Public Square
03/29/2013 GOOD FRIDAY @ 12:00   David Harting                               Leitchfield United Methodist