Winter used to be my favorite time of year. It isn't now. I can't get warm enough. We had snow last weekend, and it's below freezing again tonight. Even the squirrels seem slowed by the frigid winds, huddling together to wait for warmer times.

It is the perfect time of year for Lent. Something about the cold seems to lend itself to self-examination. Trees stand bare before the wind. We stand with our souls bared to God. Nature waits for spring. We wait for Easter.

This year our Wednesdays in Lent will feature a series of programs and presentations on stewardship - but maybe not in the way you'd expect. We will be examining the implications of what it means to be a steward, not just in relationship to the Church, but to each other, the community, and the world as a whole. Stewardship is a way of life, not a number on a pledge card. Join us at 6:00 for services, followed by soup, sandwiches, salads and discussion. And pray for warmer weather.

Peace,
Vance

Click here to read from past Son Rises.

The Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Hattiesburg, Mississippi is a church community united by a joyful, caring spirit and a commitment to outreach to Hattiesburg and beyond. Ascension values the unique resources, skills, and talents of all individuals and welcome their use. At the Church of the Ascension we celebrate God's love through worship, education, mutual support, and outreach to our church family, the University of Southern Mississippi, and the larger community. We nurture the continued growth of our spiritual community.