Words of Welcome

Prayer

Dear God, we thank you for this meal and the joy of sharing it with friends. We ask that you bless this food to nourish our bodies and conversations to uplift our spirits. May our time together be filled with laughter, love, and meaningful connection. We are grateful for your presence in our lives and for the gift of community. Amen.

GRAB FOOD AND START TO EAT

Introduce yourself to those you are sitting with:

  1. Name and Pronouns

  2. What do you do full time? Work, school, etc. and what do you do/study?

  3. What is your go-to karaoke song?

CONVERSATION TIME

What is Lent?

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

  • What Is lent? What do you know about lent? Why do we honor it? What is the length of time? Why is that time important? Do you have any special traditions you honor during lent? If not, can you think of anything you have heard that others do during lent?

  • Many people choose to fast during Lent, why is that? Do you know where that tradition comes from? If not, read below!

    • At the Council of Nicaea in AD 325, all the Churches agreed that Easter should be celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox. Since the spring equinox usually falls on March 21, the date of Easter in the Western Church occurs between March 22 and April 25. At Nicaea, the council settled on the 40-day fast period for Lent because the number 40 has roots in biblical writings. God sends rain on the earth for 40 days and 40 nights when Noah and his entourage go into the ark (Genesis 7:4). Moses sits atop Mount Sinai receiving instructions from God for 40 days (Exodus 24:18). Elijah “walked forty days and forty nights to the mountain of God, Horeb” when he flees Jezebel’s wrath (1 Kings 19:8). The 40 days of Lent, however, are primarily associated with the time Jesus spent in the desert fasting, praying, and being tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1–11). 

    • In all of these stories the prophet in question is tested and in turn strengthens their faith and conviction in the spirit. This is why many people choose to add something into their daily routine that helps them strengthen the connection with their creator, rather than fast. Have you ever tried adding something into your routine to help you connect with your creator? Do you have any current practices that help you do this? What (small or large thing) could you add to your daily rituals and routine to help you focus on and connect with your spiritual journey everyday?

Final Blessing

~Numbers 6:24-26 (CEB)

The Lord bless you and protect you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord lift up his face to you and grant you peace.

Amen.

REMEMBER - YOU ARE A GIFT!

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