One of the big traditions of Spring is the joy of Easter. In the past, it meant Easter bonnets, new outfits, parades, and goodies in an Easter basket. Many of those traditions have faded into memory, but Baster is still a very important part of the Christian faith. In fact, Easter is THE most important event, the re-telling of the history-changing story of the Resurrection of Jesus.
The Eagle Grove Area Ministerial Association (EGAMA) joins together to help our community prepare for this once-a-year celebration of the essence of our faith. Lent is the 40 days (not counting Sundays) preceding Easter. It is a time of introspection, of cleansing our hearts, of growing closer to Our Lord as we seek to understand ourselves.
Each of the different churches acknowledges this time in the manner of our own traditions.
Those events are mostly listed on the “church page” of the Eagle. In addition, the members of EGAMA have a variety of activities planned to bring community members together to pray and prepare.
An Eagle Grove favorite has long been the gathering for the Lenten luncheons. Each Thursday of Lent one of the churches hosts a luncheon at noon, which includes a simple meal, and a meditation and prayer by the hosting pastor. Each luncheon is carefully scheduled to last just one hour, to allow persons to take their lunch hour for fellowship and uplifting teaching. A free will offering is accepted at each meal. Some churches use these funds for an on-going project within the church, while others donate the collection to EGAMA or another community need.
The following is the schedule of luncheons for this year: on February 22, at Evangelical Lutheran Church; on February 29, at Grace E Free Church; March 7 will be at Sacred Heart Church; March 14 will be at Samuel Lutheran Church, assisted by members of United Church of Christ; March 21 will be at First Baptist. Reservations are not required for any of the luncheons.
To round up the community preparations, EGAMA will provide a Good Friday service on Friday, March 29 at the Evangelical Lutheran Church. The evening will begin with a soup supper at 6pm in the church hall, with an ecumenical service beginning at 7pm. The service will be broadcast on the radio, for those unable to participate at the church.
Church membership is not required for any of the EGAMA events. We invite those of any faith denomination, or no affiliation, to join in all of these times of sharing hope.
-Nancy Strub
