Rector's Rambling - February 7, 2010

As we continue in the midst of the “-gesima” Sundays we should be looking forward 11 days to the coming of Lent.
One way is to begin thinking about what disciplines and devotions we are considering taking on. What are we “giving up” for Lent? This is not necessarily something that is bad for us (those should perhaps given up anyway), but even something enjoyable and good but that we use as both an offering and an opportunity remind ourselves that we have control (by His grace) over our bodily impulses. As I write I am in the midst of weaning myself back off coffee. Coffee in itself is not bad, in moderation. But the last few years I have given it up as an offering and a reminder that I don’t need it. Of course there are other things in my life that I will be giving up as well.
But in addition to giving something up, I am piling up some books I want to read as some fodder for mediation, and some projects I want to do as both a discipline and devotion. Both of these types of things not only build up now, but can be things that carry-over beyond Lent.
If you haven’t given Lent a thought yet, start thinking and praying now about what Disciplines and Devotions might be helpful in addition to the Church’s prescribed Fasts (Ash Wednesday and Good Friday) days of abstinence from flesh meat (all Fridays in Lent) and devotion (Weekly attendance at Church).
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TODAY - after the 8am and 10am services, at the Altar Rail in the Chapel, we will have the BLESSING OF THROATS in honor of the Feast of St. Blase.
An ancient tradition of the Church, blessed (unlit) candles are crossed and placed upon the throats of all those desiring this healing blessing. The priest prays, “At the intercession of St. Blase may you be freed and protected from all ailments of the throat, and all other infirmities, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
More information on the tradition can be found in the Teaching Note on page 6.