Reconciliation is theme of Lenten services

by Staff Pioneer Times
15 years ago

    “Seeking Reconciliation” is the theme of five services to be offered to the greater Houlton community this Lenten season by the Southern Aroostook Ministerial Association (SAMA). Starting Wednesday, Feb. 24, each service will be hosted by a different congregation at 7 p.m. followed by food and fellowship (see schedule below).
    Through listening to the needs of families and community members, SAMA has decided this year to provide a more open framework for the Lenten services. Many more youth will be involved as well as those who have often felt rejected. We will listen to their stories with open hearts as we pray for the Grace of God to bring reconciliation.
    All of the offerings at the Lenten service will go to the Salvation Army Fuel Fund. For those who wish to make a physical donation to those suffering in Haiti, baskets will be available at each service to receive health kits: a bag filled with a wash cloth, hand towel, toothbrush, soap, comb and $1. Individual items are also welcome and will be prepared to go to Haiti by the Hodgdon United Methodist Church.
    On April 2, the Good Friday Service at noon will be hosted by the Salvation Army. An Easter Service will again be held this year at 6 p.m. on the porch of St. Mary’s Church followed by breakfast at the Congregational Church on High Street.
Schedule of Ecumenical Lenten Services and Topics
Wednesdays at 7 p.m. followed by food and fellowship
Feb 24 – St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church: Freedom from mental and physical prisons and reconciliation with family and community.
March 3 – Good Shepherd Episcopal Church: Reconciliation with our Wabanaki Neighbors.
March 10 – Houlton United Methodist Church: Reconciliation through the “Adopt-A-Block” program.
March 17 – Military Street Baptist Church: Reconciliation between generations. Youth presentation.
March 24 – Hodgdon United Methodist Church: Reconciliation of opponents and love feast.
Good Friday and Easter
April 2 – Noon at the Salvation Army: Good Friday service.
April 4 – 6 a.m. at St. Mary’s Porch: Easter Sunrise service.
April 4 – 6:45 a.m. at Congregational Church: Easter breakfast together.