On Ash Wednesday, we write down our sins and then burn them. As the bright light of Epiphany fades and winter begins to give way to spring, the Church enters a new season of reflection, repentance, and preparation. Lent is a sacred journey , a time set apart to prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter. It is a season of self-examination and renewal , mirroring Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness. As we approach Holy Week, we are invited to walk the path of Christ, turning away from sin and drawing closer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. In a world that constantly urges us to seek more, do more, and consume more , Lent calls us to pause , to strip away distractions, and to reorient our hearts toward what truly matters. It is a season of both sorrow and hope , where we confront our weaknesses and, in doing so, experience the depth of God’s mercy. But what exactly is Lent, and how can we enter into it with intention? What Is Lent? Lent is the 40-day season of preparation leading up to Easter, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending at sundown on Holy Saturday . (If you count the days, you’ll notice there are 46 , but Sundays are always considered a "mini-Easter" and are not included in the fast!) The number 40 is deeply symbolic in Scripture: Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai (Exodus 24:18). The Israelites wandered for 40 years in the wilderness (Numbers 14:33-34). Elijah journeyed 40 days to Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:8). And most importantly, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the desert, resisting temptation and preparing for His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). Lent mirrors this time of testing and transformation , calling us into a spiritual wilderness where we can confront our temptations, renew our faith, and prepare to celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death. We collect alms for the poor. The Three Pillars of Lent Throughout history, the Church has guided Christians in three key spiritual disciplines during Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving . These practices, drawn from Scripture, shape our Lenten journey and help us grow closer to God. 1. Prayer: Turning Our Hearts to God Lent is a time to deepen our prayer lives . Through prayer, we invite God into our struggles, seek His guidance, and open our hearts to transformation. Whether through daily Scripture reading, silent meditation, or communal prayer , Lent is a season to slow down and listen. Try incorporating a new prayer practice : Morning or evening prayer, praying the Psalms, or using a Lenten devotional. Attend extra church services : Many traditions offer Stations of the Cross, Lenten Vespers, or additional midweek services . Pray for others : Intercede for the suffering, the lost, and those in need of hope. Just as Jesus withdrew to pray , we, too, can use this season to step away from distractions and seek God in deeper ways. 2. Fasting: Making Space for God Fasting is perhaps the most well-known Lenten discipline. But fasting is not simply about giving something up—it’s about making room for God. By voluntarily abstaining from certain foods, luxuries, or habits, we create space for deeper dependence on Christ. Many Christians fast from meat on Fridays (or throughout Lent). Some give up a favorite food or drink , like sweets, coffee, or alcohol. Others fast from social media, excessive screen time, or other distractions that pull them away from prayer. The goal is not self-punishment but self-discipline —a way to remind ourselves that our deepest hunger is for God alone . 3. Almsgiving: Love in Action Lent calls us to love others in tangible ways , remembering that true faith is lived out in service . Almsgiving means giving generously to those in need—not just financially, but with our time, resources, and compassion. Donate to a charity or local food pantry . Find ways to serve in your community . Practice simple, everyday acts of kindness , reflecting Christ’s love. Fasting and prayer turn our hearts toward God , while almsgiving turns our hearts toward others . Together, these three disciplines prepare us to fully enter into the mystery of Easter . Lent Is a Journey—Not a Checklist It’s easy to approach Lent as a list of rules —things we “should” or “shouldn’t” do. But Lent is not about perfection. It is about drawing near to Jesus and allowing Him to transform us. Some years, we may fast with great devotion. In other years, we may struggle. God meets us wherever we are. The goal is not to “do Lent perfectly” but to open ourselves up to God’s work in our hearts . We eat Hot Cross Buns on Good Friday. A Call to Reflection and Renewal As Lent begins, the Church places ashes on our foreheads, reminding us: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” This simple yet powerful ritual reminds us of our mortality, our need for repentance, and the hope we have in Christ . It sets the tone for the season ahead, a time to repent, reflect, and return to God . Lent leads us through the wilderness so that, when Easter morning arrives, we can truly celebrate the victory of the Resurrection. It is not an easy season , but it is a necessary one—a time of preparation, surrender, and grace. So this year, what if we embraced Lent as a gift ? What if, instead of dreading the fasts or viewing Lent as a burden, we saw it as an opportunity for deeper transformation ? Let us walk into this season with open hearts , ready to encounter Christ in the quiet, in the stillness, and the surrender. Let us prepare ourselves for the joy that is coming. How will you observe Lent this year? Let’s journey through this season together.

Did you know that Lent has its very own songs? I certainly didn’t until I began exploring the beauty of the liturgical calendar. Much like Advent, Lent has its own distinct themes; repentance, mercy, sacrifice, and the longing for redemption. Yet, while Advent’s music expresses deep yearning and hopeful expectation, Lenten hymns are often more somber, calling us to reflection, repentance, and the weight of Christ’s journey to the cross. Why Lenten Music Matters Lenten hymns set a tone that is vastly different from the joyous songs of Easter. They guide us into the wilderness with Christ, helping us to slow down and enter fully into this season of self-examination and renewal. The music of Lent reminds us of our frailty , our dependence on God’s mercy , and ultimately, the great love of Christ , who bore our sins on the cross. One of the most well-known and beloved Lenten hymns is O Sacred Head, Now Wounded . Its powerful lyrics and mournful melody draw us into the suffering of Christ, making us pause and reflect on the depth of His sacrifice: O sacred Head, now wounded, With grief and shame weighed down, Now scornfully surrounded With thorns, Thine only crown; How pale Thou art with anguish, With sore abuse and scorn! How does that visage languish, Which once was bright as morn! This hymn takes us to the foot of the cross, inviting us to meditate on the sorrow and suffering of Christ . The weight of Lent is real, but through it, we glimpse the boundless love of our Savior. Another powerful Lenten hymn is When I Survey the Wondrous Cross . This hymn shifts our focus from sorrow to deep gratitude , leading us to the heart of Lenten worship, laying down our own pride and embracing the humility of the cross : When I survey the wondrous cross, On which the Prince of Glory died, My richest gain I count but loss, And pour contempt on all my pride. Lenten music doesn’t leave us in despair, it draws us deeper into the mystery of Christ’s love, preparing us for the triumph of Easter morning. Resisting the Pull of Easter Music Just as the world rushes past Advent straight into Christmas, it often skips over Lent in favor of the celebration of Easter. But there is something deeply transformative about allowing ourselves to dwell in the music of Lent, to sit in the tension, to fully engage with the reality of Christ’s suffering, and to prepare our hearts for the full joy of the Resurrection . In our family, we make an intentional effort to embrace Lenten hymns throughout these forty days. We save "Jesus Christ is Risen Today" and "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" for Easter morning, allowing their triumphant joy to be the culmination of a season of preparation . And when we finally sing them, it feels different , richer, fuller, overflowing with meaning because we have journeyed through Lent first. Lenten Playlists to Enrich Your Season To help you embrace the beauty of Lent, I’ve created a Lenten playlist with traditional hymns . Whether you’re setting aside time for prayer, reading Scripture, or simply driving in the car, these songs will draw you deeper into the meaning of the season . Traditional Lenten Playlist These hymns have been sung for centuries, guiding the Church through this sacred season of repentance and renewal . They remind us of Christ’s suffering, our need for grace, and the mercy of God .

Did you know that Advent has its very own songs? I certainly didn’t until I began exploring the beauty of the liturgical calendar. Most of us associate December with Christmas music—joyful carols celebrating the birth of Christ. But Advent, the season of waiting and preparation, offers us a different kind of music—songs of longing, hope, and deep yearning for the Savior to come. Why Advent Music Matters Advent music sets a tone that is entirely different from the celebratory nature of Christmas music. It acknowledges the reality of a world in darkness, groaning for redemption, and yearning for deliverance. The songs of Advent help us lean into this season of anticipation, heightening our sense of longing for Jesus—both His coming as a baby in Bethlehem and His promised return in glory. Take, for example, the famous hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Its haunting melody and lyrics reflect the deep ache for salvation felt by God’s people: O come, O come Emmanuel And ransom captive Israel That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear This ancient hymn, rooted in Scripture and tradition, is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ. The refrain, “Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel,” captures the tension of Advent perfectly: the joy of what’s promised, but not yet fulfilled. Another beautiful hymn is “Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending.” This hymn focuses on Jesus’ second coming and builds in intensity, capturing the triumph and glory of His reign: Lo! He comes with clouds descending, Once for our salvation slain; Thousand thousand saints attending Swell the triumph of His train: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! God appears, on earth to reign. When you sing or listen to these songs, you can’t help but feel the weight of the world’s longing and the power of the hope we have in Christ. Resisting the Pull of Christmas Music I’ll be honest—it can be tough to focus on Advent music when Christmas carols are playing everywhere you go. From shopping malls to radio stations, the world skips straight to Christmas without pausing for Advent. But by intentionally embracing the music of Advent, we can deepen our experience of the season. Holding off on Christmas music doesn’t diminish its joy—it makes it that much sweeter. In our family, we’ve made a tradition of saving Christmas carols until Christmas Eve. During Advent, we immerse ourselves in its themes of waiting and expectation. By the time we arrive at church for the Christmas Eve service, we are bursting with excitement to sing “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” The joy of celebrating Christ’s birth feels richer, fuller, and more meaningful because we’ve spent weeks preparing our hearts. Advent Playlists to Enrich Your Season To help you embrace the beauty of Advent, I’ve created two playlists: one with traditional hymns and another with contemporary Advent songs. Whether you’re lighting candles on your Advent wreath, driving in the car, or enjoying a quiet moment of reflection, these songs will help you enter into the season with purpose. Traditional Advent Playlist This playlist features beloved hymns that have been sung for generations. They connect us to the timeless hope of the Church as we wait for the coming of Christ. Songs like “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” and “O Come, Divine Messiah” invite us into the quiet reverence and expectant longing of Advent. Contemporary Advent Playlist This playlist includes modern songs that capture the themes of waiting and hope in fresh and creative ways. Artists like Mission House, Andrew Peterson, and Audrey Assad bring the heart of Advent to life for today’s listeners. The Gift of Waiting Advent music is a gift. It allows us to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for both the celebration of Christ’s birth and the hope of His return. By focusing on the themes of Advent, we can embrace the tension of living in the "already, but not yet"—the world where Christ has come but where we still long for His kingdom to come in fullness. So, this Advent season, I invite you to lean into the waiting. Let the music of Advent fill your home, your heart, and your family’s traditions. I promise it will make the joy of Christmas even greater when it finally arrives. How do you celebrate Advent through music? I’d love to hear your thoughts and favorite songs in the comments below!

As we enter the season of Lent, you'll see churches around the world draped in deep shades of purple , on the altar, in the vestments of the clergy, and even in our homes. But have you ever wondered why purple is the color of this season? The answer is found in both the suffering and kingship of Christ . The Mocking of the King In the Gospel of Mark, we find a moment of profound cruelty and yet, deep theological significance : “And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on him. And they began to salute him, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ And they were striking his head with a reed and spitting on him and kneeling down in homage to him.” Mark 15:17-19 The soldiers, mocking Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah, dressed Him in royal purple and placed a crown of thorns upon His head. They ridiculed His kingship, unknowingly affirming the very truth they sought to deny: Jesus is indeed the King . For the soldiers, this was nothing more than humiliation. But for us, it is a moment of revelation. Christ the King is not like the rulers of this world. His throne is the cross. His crown is made of thorns. His glory is found in suffering. Every time we see purple during Lent , we are drawn back to this moment. We remember the suffering Christ endured, the love that led Him to the cross, and the reality of His kingship. The Dual Symbolism of Purple Purple has long been associated with royalty and majesty . In the ancient world, purple dye was rare and costly, often reserved for emperors and kings. The Roman soldiers’ choice to place a purple cloak on Jesus was meant as mockery, but it was actually a declaration of who He truly is , the King of Kings . At the same time, purple is also the color of penance and repentance . For centuries, the Church has used this color during seasons of fasting, self-examination, and preparation. It is a color of humility , reminding us of our need for God’s mercy and grace. During Lent, purple invites us to reflect on both : The royalty of Christ , who reigns in love and humility. The suffering of Christ , who took on the weight of our sin. Bringing Lent Into Your Home: Incorporating Purple The Church uses purple throughout Lent as a visual reminder of this season’s significance. We can do the same in our homes, creating a space that reflects our journey of repentance and preparation . Here are some simple ways to incorporate purple into your home during Lent: Cover sacred images . Traditionally, statues, icons, and crosses are covered with purple fabric during Lent as a sign of mourning and anticipation of Christ’s passion. Drape a purple cloth over any crosses or crucifixes in your home. Use purple candles . Place purple candles on your dining table or prayer space as a reminder of the season. Here and here . Set the table with purple . Use a purple table runner, napkins, or placemats at meals to remind your family that we are walking through Lent together. Here and here . Create a prayer space . Dedicate a quiet space in your home with purple cloth, candles, and a Bible for daily Lenten devotions. Dress in purple . Wear purple on Ash Wednesday or throughout the season as a way to align yourself with the themes of Lent. These small, intentional changes help to create a sacred atmosphere in our homes, reminding us that we are in a season of reflection, penitence, and preparation. A Call to Reflection The color purple is not just a liturgical decoration, it is an invitation . When we see the deep purple hues of Lent, let them remind us: To repent , to turn away from sin and toward Christ. To remember , the suffering He endured for our sake. To prepare , for the joy of Easter, when our King, once robed in purple and crowned with thorns, is revealed in His resurrection glory. This Lent, let purple be more than a color. Let it be a call to deeper devotion , a visual reminder of the love, sacrifice, and kingship of Jesus Christ . If you’d like to know more about Lent, including the meaning, history, recipes, and traditions behind it all, then you’ll love my guidebook, The Liturgical Home: Lent . It gives you everything you need to celebrate Lent in your Home!

It’s time for Shrove Tuesday , also called Pancake Day , Mardi Gras , and Carnival . And I’m excited, not only because we will eat pancakes but also because it means we are only a day away from Lent, my favorite season of the year! The End of the Carnival The word Carnival comes from the Latin expression, carne levare, or “remove meat.” Carnival is filled with celebration and merrymaking as we empty our larders of all the things we cannot consume during Lent. If you are like me, when you think of this day, you probably envision rich foods, elaborate parades, huge crowds, beads being thrown, and excessive partying and drunkenness. But the day is actually a transition day, moving God’s people from the season of Epiphanytide to the season of Lent . It is a day suspended between two worlds. Yes, It is a day of feasting and using up all of our fatty foods, but it is also a day of confessing our sins and preparing our hearts for the start of Lent. Even in New Orleans, where Mardi Gras has become so secularized, there are no parades after 2:00 p.m., honoring the tradition that a more penitential time begins at sundown. Even if you are a die-hard partier and you continue to hang out in the French Quarter to keep the party going, the party abruptly ends at midnight. There is an elaborate parade, but this time, it is a parade of police officers walking down the streets, forcefully announcing that the party is over, followed by street sweepers that clean the streets. At the stroke of midnight, Mardi Gras is over, and Lent has begun.  Shrove Tuesday and Other Names The name Shrove Tuesday points to the penitential character of the day. The word shrove comes from the Old English word “shrift” and means to confess one’s sins. Traditionally, on this day, the church bells would ring, letting the townspeople know that it was time to go to church to confess one’s sins before Lent began. They would also bring their palm crosses from the previous Palm Sunday, where the palms were burned and ground up to be the ashes for the Ash Wednesday service.  By contrast, Mardi Gras and Pancake Day  point to the feasting traditions associated with the day. Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday, and Pancake Day refers specifically to bread made with eggs and milk. Many food traditions developed around the world as Christians tried to use up all of the rich foods in their houses. In Mexico and Spain, they make what we call “French toast.” In France, they make King Cake. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, they make pancakes. It’s customary in Germany and Poland to make doughnuts filled with jam or cream. In Ukraine, they make thin pancakes called blini .  Celebrate Shrove Tuesday at Home If you’d like to celebrate this special day at home with your family, here’s an easy guide: Buy inexpensive Mardi Gras beads and let your kids decorate your home. Hang them from the chandelier or off of the dining room chairs. Let your kids dress up. They can make Mardi Gras masks and wear as many Mardi Gras beads as they want! Let them have fun!  Make rich foods like pancakes, King Cake, or doughnuts. Use up all of your meats, such as sausage and bacon. Put out colored sugar, whipped cream, chocolate chips, syrup, or whatever you want. You are trying to create merriment and joy, so let them feast and have fun! We are celebrating the goodness of the Lord!  Hold a pancake race ! In England, the tolling of the bells became known as the pancake bell because it was time to have your pancakes cooked up. An Olney, England, legend tells of a woman who was so busy making pancakes for Shrove Tuesday that she lost track of time and was still flipping her pancakes when the church bells began to ring for the start of the church service. Hurrying to get to the church on time, she ran out of her house while still carrying the frying pan and flipping the pancakes. That is why England holds pancake races on Shrove Tuesday. A Mom Pro-Tip : Give your kids cool pans with already-cooked pancakes. Have them race a course as they flip their pancakes.  After you have finished feasting and your kids are ready for bed, gather together and transition into a time of prayer. Explain to your children that you are now entering a new time called Lent, a special time set aside to prepare our hearts for Easter. Explain to them that your family will mark this time by making some changes to your lives. As a family, you will be changing how you eat, praying more together, reading the Bible more together, and collecting alms for the poor. Spend time allowing them to talk about or think about what they want to give up during Lent . Close your time by reading Isaiah 25:6-9 together. Recipe: Easy Fluffy Pancake For Shrove Tuesday Ingredients 1 egg ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1 cup buttermilk or milk Directions Melt the butter. When cool, blend in the egg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Add the egg, butter, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth. Heat a griddle to medium-low heat. Melt one tablespoon of butter on the griddle. Pour out batter, making small circles. Flip when golden brown. Drizzle with honey or syrup. Makes 2-3 servings.

Today I am thrilled to announce that The Liturgical Home: Lent is available on Amazon! In the tapestry of the Christian liturgical year, the season of Lent emerges as a profound and transformative journey. It is a journey that prepares us for the most miraculous event in our lives—the death and resurrection of Jesus. In a culture that frequently prizes instant gratification and superficial pleasures, Lent calls us to something deeper, something more enduring. It’s a call to look inward, to confront our weaknesses, and to embrace the grace that is so freely offered to us in Christ. Why I Wrote This Book As a young mom, I longed to celebrate the liturgical year fully in my home. I wanted my family to experience the beauty of Lent—not just a handful of feast days or an overview of the season, but the why behind it all. Most of the books I found touched on Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, and maybe a few Lenten traditions, but I wanted more . I wanted a resource that explained the history, meaning, and traditions of the season. I wanted to know why we refrain from eating meat on Fridays, why we "bury" the Alleluias, and why the color purple is the symbol of Lent. I wanted every feast and fast day fully explained, complete with its history and significance. I wanted traditional activities and recipes from around the world , passed down through generations. Most importantly, I wanted family devotions for each day of Lent , something to guide my family through this sacred season with intentionality. And since I couldn’t find a book that had all of this in one place… I wrote it myself. Inside The Liturgical Home: Lent In this Lenten edition of The Liturgical Home , we are invited to observe a Holy Lent with: 🌿 An Introduction to the Season – Learn the history and meaning of Lent and how it fits into the Church year. 🌿 Ways to Observe Lent in Your Home – Practical ways to bring the season to life for your family. 🌿 The Meaning Behind Our Rich Lenten Traditions – Explore the history behind the practices we associate with Lent. 🌿 Lenten Devotions for Your Family – Weekly devotions and prayers to guide you through Lent. 🌿 Traditional Recipes from Around the World – Discover the flavors of Lent with meaningful dishes passed down through generations. Lent is a season rich in history, filled with beautiful traditions and incredible foods from around the world. In this book, I’ve set out to recover those traditions—so that we don’t just observe Lent, but live it . Whether you are new to the season of Lent or have been observing it for years, there is something in this book for you. Join me as we embrace this sacred season with greater understanding, deeper faith, and a heart open to the transforming power of Christ. 📖 The Liturgical Home: Lent is available now! Let’s journey through these transformative days of Lent together. 🌿

So many changes occur when we enter into the season of Lent, one of those being how we decorate. Lenten decor in churches and homes is characterized by its simplicity and austerity, reflecting the solemn and introspective nature of the season. Churches and homes often use purple drapery, the liturgical color of Lent , to signify penitence and mourning. This decor serves as a visual reminder of the season's purpose: to prepare our hearts for the commemoration of Jesus Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. Additionally, the tradition of veiling crosses and icons with purple cloths during Lent further captures the Lenten spirit of somberness and sorrow. The tradition of veiling crosses during Lent is steeped in symbolism and reverence. Covering crosses in the church or home with a cloth is a visual reminder of the season's penitential and reflective nature. By covering the crosses, we are reminded of the stark reality of Jesus’ death and the somber nature of the events leading up to it. It underscores the gravity of Christ's sacrifice while heightening the sense of expectancy for the unveiling and celebration of the resurrection. Moreover, the veiling serves as a visual metaphor for the spiritual blindness and hardness of our hearts that keeps us from fully grasping the significance of Christ's sacrifice. This act encourages self-examination and repentance, inviting us to consider how we may have turned away from God. This act of veiling not only deepens the sense of mystery and solemnity but also heightens the anticipation for the unveiling and celebration come Easter. The progression from the bare and somber Lenten decor to the vibrant and joyful decorations of Easter visually and symbolically represents the journey from the contemplation of Christ's passion and death to the celebration of his resurrection. Then, the unveiling of these crosses on Easter Day becomes a powerful symbol of new life and the resurrection, marking the end of the Lenten journey and the beginning of renewed spiritual vision in the light of Christ’s victory over death. This Lent, let's transform our homes into a place of reflection and set the scene for a journey—a very special one that leads us through the wilderness for 40 days to Easter's joy. Before bed on Shrove Tuesday or the day of Ash Wednesday, go around the house and cover any crosses or icons with purple fabric. Any purple fabric will do - thrift store tablecloths or napkins, sheets that you cut up, or napkins or fabric that you bought at a store. I have often used napkins. They are inexpensive and hemmed and I reuse them year after year that initial purchase. Simple drape fabric over your icons. With my crosses, I covered them with fabric and then tied them beneath the "T" with another napkin or strip of fabric. This is a great visual reminder throughout our homes of the season that we are walking in. Every time we see those covered crosses or icons, we are reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made to redeem us and his great love for us. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 If you’d like to know more about Lent, including the meaning, history, recipes, and traditions behind it all, then you’ll love my guidebook, The Liturgical Home: Lent . It gives you everything you need to celebrate Lent in your Home! Here's a round-up of some pretty purple cloth napkins. Click on the image for the link.

Ever wonder why purple is the color of Lent? The Gospel of Mark recounts for us in stark detail how the soldiers mocked our Lord before his crucifixion. They arrayed him in a purple robe and a crown of thorns. For the soldiers, the robe of royal purple and the crown of thorns was just another cruel taunt for a man condemned to die. For us, they are the robe and crown of our King who willingly gave up his life for the life of the world. This poignant moment in Scripture highlights the dual symbolism of purple - the royalty of Christ and the suffering he endured. During Lent, as we use purple, we are not only reminded of our call to repentance and reflection but also of this profound moment in Christ’s passion. This powerful imagery serves as a somber reminder of the mocking of Jesus as the ‘King of the Jews’ and invites us into a deeper meditation on the sacrifices He made and the true kingship He represents.

Instead of getting caught up in the commercialism of Valentine’s Day, why not take this opportunity to reflect on what Scripture says about true love? Let this be a day to teach our children that love is not just about romance, but about kindness, patience, selflessness, and faithfulness, qualities found in 1 Corinthians 13. One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family is by turning to Scripture. 1 Corinthians 13, often called the “Love Chapter,” gives us a beautiful description of love—not as fleeting emotion, but as an enduring virtue. Read 1 Corinthians 13 as a family.  This passage teaches us about true, Godly love. Discuss with your children how the love described here differs from the love often portrayed in movies and media. Focus on these powerful words: "Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends."  (1 Corinthians 13:4-8) Encourage your children to think about how they can practice this kind of love in their daily lives—with their siblings, their friends, and even those who may be difficult to love. Make “Valentines” with a purpose.  Instead of simply exchanging store-bought cards, create your own meaningful valentines. Write out one of the attributes of love from 1 Corinthians 13 on each card. Then, share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone who might need encouragement. These handmade valentines become a tangible reminder of Christ-like love. Put love into action.  Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to practice acts of kindness. Serve a meal to someone in need, write a heartfelt note of appreciation, or spend time in prayer for those who are hurting. Love is most powerful when it is lived out. This Valentine’s Day, let’s reclaim the beauty of love, not just the romantic kind, but the love that reflects the heart of Christ. Let’s use this day to teach our children that love is patient, kind, and selfless, and that we are called to share that love with the world.

St. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate love, not just romantic love, but the deep, self-giving love that St. Valentine himself embodied. While the world rushes to buy flowers and chocolates, this is a wonderful opportunity to slow down and create something meaningful with your family. One of my favorite simple traditions is making heart-shaped salt dough ornaments with my kids with Heart Shaped Cookie Cutters . They’re easy, fun, and add a sweet touch to our home during this season. Plus, as little hands knead and shape the dough, it’s a great way to talk about what real love looks like, patient, kind, and enduring, just like the love St. Valentine showed in his devotion to Christ. These ornaments can be hung on a branch placed in a pitcher, tied to gift bags, or even used as decorations for a St. Valentine’s Day feast! St. Valentine’s Day Salt Dough Ornaments Bringing It All Together As you make these with your kids, take a moment to reflect on why we celebrate St. Valentine’s Day—not just as a day for candy and cards, but as a remembrance of a man who loved Christ so much that he was willing to risk everything for Him (Click HERE for my post on St. Valentine and why we celebrate him). Let this simple craft be a small but beautiful way to bring meaning to your celebrations. And when you see these little hearts hanging in your home, may they serve as a reminder of the greatest love of all—the love of Christ. How does your family celebrate St. Valentine’s Day? I’d love to hear your traditions in the comments!

Each year, the Christian community observes the Feast of St. Matthias, a day set aside to honor the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot following his betrayal of Jesus Christ.  St. Matthias's story is found in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:15-26). After the Ascension of Jesus, the remaining eleven apostles, led by Peter, decided to fill the vacancy left by Judas. The criteria for Judas's replacement were specific: it had to be someone who had accompanied Jesus and the disciples from the time of John the Baptist until Jesus’s Ascension. Two men were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. The apostles prayed for divine guidance and cast lots, and Matthias was chosen, restoring the group to the symbolic number of twelve. After his selection as an apostle, little is known about Matthias’s life and ministry. However, various traditions hold that he preached in Judea and then carried the Gospel to Ethiopia.  Ways to Celebrate the Feast of St. Matthias Read Acts 1:15-26 Make Dabo Kolo —an easy-to-make, crunchy, spicy snack that is common in Ethiopia. Scroll down for the recipe. Since St. Matthias spread the gospel in Ethiopia, I wanted to feature incredible ministry happening in Ethiopia through the Anglican Relief and Development Funds'   Love the World Campaign . I'm sharing the links if you'd like to contribute your Lenten alms to the work that they are doing. Here are 2 incredible projects happening in Ethiopia right now through ARDF - In Gambella, Ethiopia Clean Water For An Entire Community https://ardf.org/project-ethiopia-gambella-2023 In a region where contaminated water results in sickness and death, the church is building a deep borewell which will provide life-giving water. They hope this well is one of many, promoting a source of peace-building in a region where water scarcity has led to conflict. This gives the Church a clear testimony of the good news of Christ who offers the living water of the Gospel! The Church is excited to offer this water to everyone - regardless of faith or tribe - extending the love of Christ to all people. Our partner Bishop Jeremiah reports that a revival is sweeping the community and many young people are coming to faith. “This water is part of preaching the gospel, preaching the love of Christ.” - The Rev. Jeremiah Maet Paul, Bishop of the Diocese of Gambella. In Tigray, Ethiopia Trauma Healing Training Brings Hope https://ardf.org/project-ethiopia-tigray-2023 Two years of war in the Tigray region of Ethiopia ended in November 2022, leaving the population traumatized by the brutality of the conflict. More than two million people were forced to flee their homes, and roughly 600,000 lives were lost. The people’s normal patterns of living have been replaced by poverty, uncertainty, and even more violence, while the emotional and spiritual wounds left have created a cycle of trauma, especially among women and children. The Anglican church there is focused on trauma care and healing, bringing hope to the entire community. They seek to train church, healthcare, and educational leaders, with a vision to reach up to 525,000 people in 2 years. “Trauma pain that is not transformed is transferred. Without intervention, those who have experienced hardships and suffering often experience lasting trauma.” - Frederick Barasa, Senior Research Analyst Recipe for Ethiopian Dabo Kolo 2 cups flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon cayenne, or more to taste 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2/3 cup water In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Pour the vegetable oil into the bowl and use your hands to mix it in. The mixture will still seem dry. Pour the water into the dough, little by little, kneading in between. The dough should not be sticky or crumbly. Once all the water has been added, use your hands to knead for 5 minutes. Flour a dry, flat surface and use a rolling pin to roll the dough out until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Then, cut the dough into strips lengthwise and horizontally. The pieces should be about ½ inch on all sides. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat with no oil or grease. Add the pieces to the skillet and mix occasionally for about 20 minutes until they’re toasted on all sides. Recipe from www.foreignfork.com

St. Valentine's Day is almost here! Get ready to be bombarded with cupids, shooting arrows, red roses, and little candy hearts in pastel colors with phrases like “be mine” and “love you.” It’s time to get really stressed about making sure your child has Valentines for all of the kids in their class and whether or not you have a reservation at your favorite restaurant. St. Valentine’s Day has become a hyper-commercialized day on which, this year alone, spending is expected to reach $25.9 billion, one of the highest-spending years on record, according to the National Retail Federation. This year it is predicted that the average American will spend around $192.80 on candy, cards, flowers, and gifts for friends, loved ones, classmates, and even coworkers, up from $175.41 in the previous year. The Story of St. Valentine So, how did we start celebrating Valentine’s Day in the first place? Well, the day was originally known as Saint Valentine’s Day. It was the day that the church celebrated a man named Valentine. St. Valentine was similar to all of the saints that we celebrate. He felt a call to serve the Lord and then dedicated his life to serving the Lord and others. He lived during a time of intense brutality towards, and persecution of, Christians. He tried to faithfully follow the Lord and was martyred because of it. St. Valentine was a priest in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II . Emperor Claudius was known as “Claudius the Cruel” and devoted his energy to long and bloody wars. Emperor Claudius noticed that getting soldiers to join his military was becoming increasingly difficult. He believed that the men were reluctant to fight because they did not want to leave their wives and families. A simple solution for Emperor Claudius was to ban all engagements and marriages in Rome. St. Valentine strongly disagreed with Claudius and he defied the emperor by continuing to perform marriages in secret. Eventually, St. Valentine’s actions were made known to the emperor and Claudius ordered that he be put to death. St. Valentine was arrested and brought before the Prefect of Rome where he was beaten to death and beheaded around the year 270 AD.  Romantic Love & Love of Christ Because Saint Valentine was martyred for defying the emperor and marrying couples , his feast day is associated with romantic love. There is also a legend that while he was in jail, he became friends with his jailer’s daughter. He left her a note saying goodbye and signed it “From Your Valentine.” This is why little notes of affection are exchanged on the day known as valentines. Regardless of the specifics of his life, it is important to remember that we celebrate St. Valentine first and foremost because of his love and faithfulness to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  We see in Valentine not only romantic love, but also the self-sacrifice love of Christ. Christians remember him for his willingness to stand for righteousness in the midst of evil and persecution even if it meant that he would be killed. While we don’t need to do away with any of the traditions associated with Valentine’s Day, it’s also good to remember the real reason we celebrate. So have fun with those around you! Give flowers, candy, or notes of love. Do what you would normally do, but also remember why and offer thanks to God for his faithful saint, Valentine! Celebrate the Attributes of Godly Love If you and your family would like a more meaningful way to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day, here are some easy ideas: Read 1 Corinthians 13 as a family. This is a great opportunity to read about what true, Godly love is like. Discuss with your children how the divine love described in this chapter is different from the love that you see depicted in movies. Focus especially on the attributes of love: Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8) Share the love of Christ with those around you by making your own “Valentines” for loved ones in your life. Include an attribute of love mentioned in the 1 Corinthians 13 passage.  Finally, make sugar cookies in the shape of hearts, and use frosting to write on top the attributes of love! Recipe for Saint Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies 1 cup butter 1 1/2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon almond flavoring 2 1/2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar Icing: Confectioner’s sugar Red food coloring or beetroot powder Whole milk Cream the butter and sugar. Add the egg and extracts. Sift flour, soda, and cream of tartar together. Add to butter mixture. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill overnight. Roll out and cut into heart shapes. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Divide the confectioner’s sugar into bowls, depending on however many shades of pink you want. Add varying amounts of coloring to the bowls. Add just enough milk to each bowl to make a thick, spreadable icing. Use the icing to write the attributes of love on the top of your cookies!