Before I forget&

     For our Lenten meditation, reflection and action this spring, St. John's will be offering a series of small faith sharing groups called Living Lent:  Faith in Action .  It is sponsored by ISAIAH a congregation-based organization of which  St. John's is a member.  There are over 80 congregations in ISAIAH from diverse areas and various denominations including Roman Catholic, Lutheran, United Church of Christ, Episcopal and United Methodist.  The reflections, based on the Gospels for the Sundays of Lent 2002, are all written by the pastors of member congregations.  There are also   Action Steps, reflecting the philosophy of ISAIAH, which individuals or small groups may choose to put their ideas into practice within the community.
     Imagine the possibilities!  Who can foresee what might happen with 80 congregations each sharing in a community-wide time of sharing, reflecting, and praying together on how the Gospel of Jesus Christ calls us to action in today's public arena?  Living Lent:  Faith in Action is a time we will set apart to do the imagining.
     Living Lent is also a time for building stronger relationships between congregations as well as within our own parish.  It is a time to develop new leaders, to deepen the knowledge and our connection with ISAIAH.  After Easter participants will gather to celebrate the relationships they have built and to share how each group believes they and their congregation are called to act.  All member congregations will gather on May 18 to "Unleash the Power of Pentecost."  This meeting will be a time to not only celebrate but also to discuss the issues and actions raised at congregational meetings.
     This is your invitation to participate by signing up for a small group.  Groups will begin meeting after Ash Wednesday and will be offered at various times and places.  There are both English and Spanish reflection books available.  A tear-off registration form is provided below.  Or you may sign up with a team member at the desk located in the plaza.  Return your completed registration form to the parish office by January 28.
     Facilitators are also needed.  Training will be provided during the last week of January.  No special experience is required, only a willingness to be part of an exciting adventure called Living Lent.  Training will be provided during the last week in January and support will be generous.   For more information please call the parish office or Margaret Nelson at 763-784-5094.

Margaret Nelson