Notes
…from the general secretary

May 2003

Dan Nigh- swander

In recent years many of our churches have embraced the discipline of the liturgical year—or at least some portions of it. Of course we have always recognized Christmas and Easter, perhaps Ascension Day, Pentecost and a few others. But the longer seasons of Advent, Epiphany, Lent and “Ordinary Time” have been more recently introduced to Mennonite worship practices, and not in all our churches.

The season of Lent as a time of preparation for remembering Jesus’ death (Good Friday) and resurrection (Easter) has become significant for many. It isn’t at all uncommon any more for members of our churches, and perhaps especially pastors, to take on some special spiritual discipline during this 40-day period.

Traditionally associated with “giving up” something – an extended fast – Lent has been a time for introspection, confession and concentrated attention to Jesus’ challenge to his disciples to “take up the cross” and follow him.

Two events during Lent this year have helped me to reflect on the great Lenten themes. One was the great challenge we have been working with of adjusting our plans at Mennonite Church Canada to fit the financial resources we have available. This has stimulated a lot of reflection on what it means to be the church, and how we heed Jesus’ call and commission in 2003.

The second event has been the attack on Iraq. Assisted by the witness of the Christian Peacemaker Teams and the peace resources of MCC and other organizations, we have reflected on the nature of evil, the futility of war and our confidence that Jesus’ death means we don’t have to sacrifice life for our salvation.

To these events you could undoubtedly add your own from personal, congregational and community life.

However, Lent is not the season in which we remain. It is a time of preparation. Preparation is important, but it is not the end. And so we come to Easter, the season to celebrate and rejoice in the resurrection. After death, there is life; after pain, joy; after earth, heaven.

Equipping is read and used by leaders in our congregations. I pray that you, as leaders, will experience the joy of salvation, the power of resurrection, and confidence in Christ’s call. I pray that you will be equipped to lead your congregation in walking together in the power of the resurrection, beyond this Lenten season, into new life in Christ.

Sincerely,

-Dan Nighswander, general secretary