Newsletter February 2026 - First Presbyterian Ridgewood, NJ
- Bruce Ballantine
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Dear Friends:
The older I get, the more quickly time passes! It seems as if I just put the Christmas trees back in the attic, and now I’m writing a newsletter article about Lent.
Lent begins on Wednesday, February 18 and consists of the 40-day period (excluding Sundays, which are considered “feast” days) leading up to Easter. Modeled after Jesus' 40 days of fasting and testing in the wilderness, Lent has traditionally involved prayer, fasting, and/or “giving up something” for Lent – perhaps a bad habit or a vice or something we truly enjoy. Regarding the latter, as we sacrifice something we enjoy, we are reminded, albeit in a small way, of the sacrifice of Christ.
In the Reformed tradition, our Lenten practice involves not simply “giving things up” but also “taking things up” – things such as increased prayer, Bible study, daily devotions, additional worship services and acts of service.
Our Lenten renewal begins with Ash Wednesday and the imposition of ashes, which serves as a physical reminder of Genesis 3:19c: "you are dust and to dust you shall return." It highlights human finitude and the reality that life is a gift from God alone. The ashes also symbolize repentance – "turning around" from self-serving ways toward the self-giving way of the cross.
Worship Opportunities
Our Ash Wednesday Service will take place at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18 in the Sanctuary. The service will include a brief meditation and the imposition of ashes. Additional worship opportunities during Lent include the Lenten Supper Series – 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, February 25, March 4, 11 & 25. Join us in the Auditorium for a simple meal, prepared by various First Pres committees, and a worship service during which a member or friend will share a portion of his or her faith journey. The evening will conclude at 7:00.
Fish & Chips to Benefit
One Great Hour of Sharing On Wednesday, March 18, in place of the Lenten Supper, we will once again offer Tastefully British Fish & Chips in the front parking lot from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Enjoy your meal in the Auditorium or get it to go. Proceeds will support ministries funded through One Great Hour of Sharing, such as disaster recovery, hunger relief, self-development of people, refugee/migrant ministries and earth care ministries.
I look forward to seeing you on Wednesdays during Lent!
Grace and peace,
Bruce
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