The beginning of Lent is marked by Ash Wednesday on February 26th. The Lenten period of 40 days, which, traditionally, does not include Sundays, commemorates the “40 days and 40 nights” (Matthew 4:2) that Jesus fasted in the desert and then resisted temptations from Satan. The Episcopal Church invites us to observe Lent “by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God’s holy Word” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 265).
Adult Programs
Ash Wednesday
Imposition of Ashes will be offered on Wednesday, February 26th at 8:00 am, 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm.Â
Sunday, March 1st, the First Sunday of Lent
St. Philip’s will participate in Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday, offering our support for The Episcopal Church’s 1000 Days of Love Campaign to support those in need around the world. As well, our Sunday services will include readings, prayers, and the Great Litany for the Season of Lent. https://tinyurl.com/rl7mjqk
Sunday Morning Adult Forum
 A series of presentations focused on themes related to the Lenten readings at 10:00 am in the Parish Hall.Â
Sundays: March 1st, March 8th, March 15th, March 22nd, March 29th, April 5th.
Wednesday Evening Programs
On Wednesdays in Lent, we will join together with St. Titus’ Episcopal Church to read and study together on the theme of racial justice, using the NYT 1619 Project workbook. This will take place here at St. Philip’s with dinner at 6:00 pm and classes from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
Book StudiesÂ
The Diocese of North Carolina is hosting two Lenten book studies related to the Becoming Beloved Community initiative. We are encouraging St. Philippians to choose one book and read along with the diocese in Lent, with an opportunity later in the season for St. Philip’s readers to come together to discuss and share our insights and      reflections. More information about the diocesan program can be found here: https://www.dionc.org/dfc/newsdetail_2/3201314.Â
Weekly ComplineÂ
Join us for virtual compline! The clergy and staff will record and upload a Sunday Evening service of Compline (night prayer) each Sunday in Lent. Pray along with us and join in this ancient practice to end the week in quiet contemplation and holy reflection.
Children and Youth Programs
Ash Wednesday
The children’s Ash Wednesday Service will follow the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner at 6:15 pm on Tuesday, February 25th.
House Church
During Lent, families with children and youth are invited to participate in weekly Sunday gatherings from 5:00 – 6:00 pm. We will meet in homes to share a simple meal and to have a family-friendly service of compline. Meets March 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th. If you are interested in hosting one of the gatherings or participating in one or more gathering, please contact Emily Sparks.Â