Lent with New Gloucester Congregational Church

The events of Christ’s Passion, which take place during the last week of Jesus’ life, often don’t receive enough time in our worship and study. These stories are important to our faith journey and our identity as followers of Jesus. And yet we often move too quickly from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday with little time to take in the dramatic story of that last week. Throughout the six weeks of Lent we will “freeze-frame” moments in Holy Week so we might put ourselves in the picture, thereby “Entering the Passion of Jesus.” How might taking a closer look at the ancient story open us to deeper conviction for our role in its ongoing message?

 

Each Sunday we will use scripture, story telling, and art to put ourselves into the Holy Week story.  Click the links below to see the artwork. 

February 26 – The Parade

Scripture – Matthew 21:1-11       Art – “Entry Into the City” by John Swanson

March 5 – The Temple

Scripture – Mark 11:15-19          Art – “Cleansing of the Temple” by Pieter Artsen 

March 12 – The Teaching

Scripture – Matthew 22:15-22    Art – “The Tribute Money” by James Tissot 

March 19 – The First Dinner

Scripture Mark 14:3-9                 Art – “Mary Anoints Jesus’ Feet” by Anonymous

March 26 – The Last Supper

Scripture – John 13:1-16             Art – “Washing the Disciples Feet” by David Paynter

April 2 – The Garden

Scripture – Mark 14:32-52            Art – “Christ on Gethsemane” by JESUS MAFA 

This worship series is adapted from materials written by the Worship Design Studio.

 

Bible Study

Want to dig deeper into these stories?  Join us for Bible Study every Wednesday in March from 4:30-5:30pm. 

 

Lent At Home Devotional

We have copies of “Henri Matisse and the Colors of Lent” available in the church office.  It uses the art of Henri Matisse to explore the themes of Lent.  If you want quick links to all of the paintings referenced in the devotional click here.  And if you would like a version of this devotional that you can access on your phone/tablet, contact the church office. Thanks to The Salt Project for producing this beautiful resource.