Please join us for one of these Christian education programs, services, and retreats happening throughout the Diocese of Louisiana this Lenten Season. Contact Karen Mackey kmackey@edola.org for additions or corrections to the list.

A blessed Lent to you!

     

    Christian Education Classes

    Baton Rouge

    St. Alban’s Chapel, Corner of Highland & Dalrymple (LSU Campus)

    • Sunday from 9:15-10:15 a.m.
      To encourage us all to observe the season of Lent as a time for reflection, a Book Discussion Class will be offered again this year led by Fr. Drew Rollins and other members of the congregation. This time around, our book will be David Zahl’s Seculosity: How Career, Parenting, Technology, Food, Politics, and Romance Became Our New Religion and What To Do About It (Fortress Press, 2019). Zahl gets at the driving issue behind our scrambling after today’s idols. This class will be offered on the six Sunday mornings of Lent, including Palm Sunday (March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, and April 5). We will meet in the common hall (9:15 – 10:15), with coffee and pastries available. Childcare will be provided. Everyone is encouraged to read the book, though you do not have to read the book to participate. Copies of the book are now available in the office for purchase ($18.00) or may easily be found online. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this discussion!

    St. James Episcopal Church, 205 N Fourth St, Baton Rouge

    • Sunday at 9:15 a.m.
      The class series, “So Many Epistles, So Little Time” is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. in Bishops Hall on the following Sundays: March 1, 8, 15, and 29 . “Epistles” covers selected epistles (letters) from the New Testment. Attendees will learn about the background of the early church. The class will be led by the Rev. Fr. Ralph Howe.

    St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8833 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge

    • Wednesdays in Lent at 6 p.m.
      Soup and Salvation Series: Join us Wednesday nights during Lent for homemade soup and a discussion about Following Jesus: Finding our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety, a book by Henri Nouwen. This Lenten series will begin at 6 pm in Pope Hall on March 4.

    St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 12633 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge

    • Wednesdays in Lent starting at 5:30 p.m.

      Wednesday’s in Lent at St Margaret’s starting March 4; 5:30 PM Healing Mass (Stations of the Cross with Mass on March 4); 6:30 PM “Signs of Life: Why Church Matters” Class with Soup Supper. Our 2020 Lenten Program, Signs of Life: Why Church Matters, will take place on Wednesday nights during Lent after the 5:30 PM service from 6:30 until 7:30 PM. A simple soup dinner will be provided each week. These will begin on Wednesday, March 4, and will continue on March 11, 18, 25, and April 1. This series comes right from the heart of the lives of monks at SSJE (Society of St John the Evangelist), as it takes up the signs and symbols of their shared Christian worship. They are excited to share with us an offering like none they have ever made before, with longer explorations of each weekly topic, featuring Brothers in conversation and illustrated by rich footage of life at the Monastery. Signs of Life: Why Church Matters is an opportunity for participants to engage with elemental aspects of liturgy and scripture: light, water, food, shelter, community. Each session will help participants connect the Sign of Life to their own spirituality, Christian worship, and a spiritual practice. The rich signs of Christian worship speak to us day by day. As we explore the layers of meaning these symbols carry, and enter more fully into their truth, we learn to pray what we live and live what we pray.

    Trinity Episcopal Church, 3552 Morning Glory Ave, Baton Rouge

    • Thursdays in Lent starting at 12 p.m.
      Lenten Yoga Class on Thursdays at noon at the Church (most likely the Common Room). Yoga, from the Sanskrit “yugi,” means to yoke or join. It is an ancient Hindu practice of movement, anchored by breath, that seeks to unite mind and body. It is worth noting that the word “religion” shares its root with the Latin ‘religare’ meaning to bind together. At a deep level, the movements of yoga seek to “bind together” the physical and contemplative dimensions of the human experience. Rather than a goal, like Lent, yoga invites one into a journey providing an opportunity for deep reflection through spiritual and physical renewal. While this practice does have its roots in Hinduism, the physical practices of yoga transfer into our Christian contemplative tradition of seeking to become more and more aware of our deepest connections to the holiness of all creation, especially the sacred connection between our physical and spiritual wholeness. You will need to wear loose clothes and bring a mat.  

    Covington

    Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St, Covington

    • Wednesdays in Lent from 6-7:15 p.m.
      LIVING FROM THE INSIDE OUT: BARRIERS TO LOVE: What are the thought habits and ways of being in the world that keep us from walking in love and enjoying fully the gifts that are all around us? How do we envision another way of being and rehearse it so that we may fully receive God’s love? Join us on Wednesday evenings beginning March 4th and ending April 1st as we explore these obstacles and ways to overcome them together. Facilitated by psychotherapist Liz Bell and priest Morgan MacIntire, this women’s group will offer a balance of psychological and scriptural perspectives.

     

    • Wednesdays in Lent from 6-7:15 p.m.
      LIVING COMPASS MEN’S & WOMEN’S FAITH & WELLNESS CIRCLES: These circles (limited to 20 participants) are a committed small group of adults and their facilitator who meet for six sessions. We will discuss how our faith is connected with and informs our wellness and the daily decisions we are making in our lives, assess our current state of balance and wellness, learn important lessons about change, and set weekly goals for changes each participant feels called to make. We believe that true religion is healthy religion. The Living Compass model is based on the Greatest Commandment as taught by Jesus – to love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. In other words, loving God with every part of ourselves brings us into harmony with God’s hope and purpose for our lives. We will explore relationships, emotions, spirituality, rest and play, stress resilience, care for the body, organization and vocation. God calls us to be whole and healthy. One of the core teachings of Living Compass is that “what we pay attention to in our lives is what will grow.” The Living Compass circle allows us to be more intentional and pay attention to those parts of our lives that are being neglected. It is a healthy, positive and affirming way to grow spiritually, physically, and emotionally.

    Hammond

    Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 West Church St, Hammond

    • Tuesday from 12-1 p.m.
      Father Paul will be offering a survey on the Pastoral Offices in the Book of Common Prayer. Bring a sack lunch and join us as we take a look at the services our tradition offer us for the various stages in our lives.

    Harvey

    St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3245 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey 

    • Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
      Lenten Soup Supper & Study

    Houma

    St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 243 Barrow St, Houma

    • Sundays at 8:45 a.m.
      Adam Hamilton’s book “24 hours that changed the world”

    Mandeville

    St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 4499 Sharp Rd, Mandeville

    • Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
      Wednesday Evening Lenten Series – Beginning Wednesday, March 4th, Holy Eucharist will be offered at 6:30pm, in the church, followed by an introductory class on Episcopal Beliefs & Practices.  “Walk in Love” Episcopal Beliefs & Practices” by Scott Gunn & Melody Wilson Shobe will be the book that is used and can be purchased thru either Amazon or by ordering thru Barnes & Noble.  Having a book IS NOT NECESSARY, but some may prefer to follow along with a book.  Childcare and light refreshments will be offered.  Class will conclude no later than 8:00pm.

    Metairie

    St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 3412 Haring Rd, Metairie

    • Sundays in Lent at 9:15 a.m.
      The Adult Christian Formation class on Sundays during Lent will be reflecting on forgiveness.  What are the theological, scriptural, emotional and psychological reasons for forgiveness. What are the steps required of asking for forgiveness?  How do we go about forgiving others? What happens if we don’t? Dennis Maynard’s Forgive and Get Your Life Back, will serve as a guide, but we will draw from other texts both from sacred and secular literature.

    • Wednesdays in Lent beginning at 5:30 p.m.; class begins at 6:30 p.m.
      Wednesday Night Lenten Program:  Walking in This World: Beginning on Wednesday, March 4th and continuing each Wednesday through Holy Week (6 weeks total), we will work our way through this “Practical Art of Creativity.” In this sequel to her bestseller The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron presents the next step in her course of discovering and recovering the creative self.  This book shows readers how to inhabit the world with a sense of wonder. Commit to “walk” these six weeks together as we relearn how to experience the grace of God all around us.  Each week begins with a light soup supper at 5:30, and is then followed by Healing Eucharist at 6:00 and the discussion from 6:30 to 7:30.

    New Orleans

    Christ Church Cathedral, 2919 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans

    • Monday at 1 p.m.
      Reading “Gospel Memories: The Future Can Rewrite our Past” by The Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby (Episcopal Bishop of Western LA). Meeting in Advent House, 1637 Seventh St, New Orleans. All are welcome!
    • Monday at 6 p.m.
      Lenten Book Study “Crucifixion” by Fleming Rutledge 6:00 pm in Advent House, 1637 Seventh St, New Orleans, on Mondays in March (2,9,16,23,30); Facilitator: Jesse George
    • Tuesday From 7-8 p.m.
      Each Tuesday in Lent we will gather around a soup meal to reflect upon the book The Last Week by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan as we journey through this season in preparation for Holy Week and Easter.  This group is great for those who work during the day! Dates:  Tuesdays – March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31;  Place: Dean’s Parlor (Parking available in the back lot) About the Book: Two top Jesus experts Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan explore the last seven days of Jesus s life, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem to his march to the cross.  Their goal: To retell a story everyone thinks they know too well and most do not seem to know at all. Using the best of biblical and historical scholarship, these leading Jesus scholars shed new light on Jesus s final days in Jerusalem, revealing their true significance in history and for faith.  Rather than collapse Holy Week into its last three days, as Christian liturgy does, they use as their basis the gospel of Mark: a chronicle of Jesus s last week day-by-day and eventually hour-by-hour.”
    • Wednesdays (March 11, 18, 25 and April 1) at 1:30 -2:30 pm. or 1 Saturday class (10:00 am to 2:00 pm with lunch) on April 25.
      Lenten Study with Canon David Lowry. On April 1, 2020 the 50th anniversary of Earth Day will be commemorated around much of the world. In the fifty years since Earth Day was created most scientists have concurred that the ‘health’ of our planet has deteriorated because the average surface of the earth has risen substantially. However, the reasons for the precipitous rise in the surface temperature continue to be debated. Those who believe that the climate crisis is ‘man-made’ call upon forces of society—including religious communities—to come to the fore on the need to curb the green-house gasses to limit warming. Others (including a minority of scientists) disagree, without making alternative proposals to help protect earth’s environment. Christian denominations –as well as our Jewish sisters and brothers—have weighed in on the issue and Pope Francis’ first encyclical dealt directly about climate change. However, in reality the Old and New Testaments dealt only indirectly with the protection and preservation of the earth; the Old Testament was focused on the establishment and protection of the Israelites and the New Testament was focused on making the case that Jesus is the Messiah, God’s chosen Son, belief in him was necessary for salvation and that the end of the world was not too-far-away; in neither the Old testament nor the New Testament case was the protection of the earth’s environment tantamount. Nonetheless, people of faith are now looking for Judaism and Christianity to make statements about the environment. Following the Lenten program for clergy of the Diocese this Lent, Christ Church will offer a program on “Living Faithfully in the World that God has Given Us.” It will focus on Franciscan spirituality and emerging “Christian environmental care.” The main book to be used in the class is Ilia Delio, Care for Creation: A Franciscan Spirituality of the Earth. This book is readily available from on-line booksellers and can be obtained through local bookstores as well. Pope Francis first encyclical, Laudato Si, will also be used in the class. It is available on-line. In addition, the class will address environmental issues and environmental solutions that the people of Christ Church Cathedral can do to mitigate environmental concerns in our own community.

    St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6249 Canal Blvd, New Orleans

    • Sundays in Lent at 9 a.m.
      Signs of Life: Why Church Matters”— “Signs of Life” takes up the central symbols of Christian worship, explores the layers of meaning they carry, and helps us enter more fully into their truth.  We learn to live what we pray, and to pray what we live. Sunday mornings at 9 AM. 

    • Wednesdays in Lent & Easter from 6-7:30 p.m.

      The Lent and Easter seasons offer a wonderful opportunity for faith exploration and reconnection to our relationship with God. On Wednesday evenings beginning Ash Wednesday (Feb. 26), we invite you to a series of sessions that we’re calling “Engaging Faith,” designed to equip you with insights and practices for your personal spiritual development. Each session will help you reflect more deeply on your relationship with God through community building, peer learning, and table discussions. Whether you’re new to the faith, or have been a part of the church your whole life, this is chance for you to take a step forward along your journey with Christ. If you are interested in baptism, confirmation, or reception into the church, or maybe even a formal reaffirmation of your baptismal vows during the Easter season, these sessions will meet the preparatory requirements.  Each session begins at 6:00 PM with dinner and discussion around the table. At 6:30 there will be 30 minute talk by one of our lay leaders (and sometimes the clergy), followed by 30 minutes of discussion and Q&A. We’ll end promptly at 7:30 PM. There is childcare available beginning at 6:00 PM. Also, you might decide to start the evening with Holy Eucharist in the chapel at 5:30 PM.

    St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 3643 Aurora Dr, New Orleans

    • Wednesdays in Lent from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
      Th Lenten series this year will be about who we are as Episcopalians and what is our faith, where did we come from, and what is our relationship with the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian denominations.  This series will also serve as a confirmation class for anyone wishing to be confirmed.  The first of this series will be next Wednesday, March 4th.  Each session will begin at 6:30 P.M. with a light supper.  We will finish by 7:30.

    Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Ave, New Orleans

    • Wednesdays in Lent from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
      On Wednesdays in Lent (March 4, 11, 18 and 25) you are invited for a 5:30 pm Celtic Eucharist celebrated by the Reverend Katherine S. McLean, and a 6:00 pm Simple Supper, followed by a variety of formation offerings from 6:30pm – 7:30pm (listed below). Childcare is available from 5:30pm – 7:30p.m.
      • Signs of Life, Why Church Matters: From the time we are born, we seek light, water, food, shelter and community. Join us for a Lenten Study designed by the Society of St. John the Evangelist and Virginia Seminary as we connect each ‘Sign of Life’ to our own spirituality, Christian worship, and a spiritual practice. Led by the Rev. Andrew Thayer
      • The Screwtape Letters: An interesting and humorous study on faith and temptation! Participants will read and discuss “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis. Together, observe Uncle Screwtape’s advice to his junior demon and nephew Wormwood on how to steer the “patient” away from the enemy, God. Led by Deacon Jay Albert

    River Ridge

    All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 100 Rex Dr, River Ridge

    • Sundays in Lent at 9 a.m.
      Five Week Lenten Study series on Strength to Love by Martin Luther King, Jr. starting March 1 at 9 a.m. in Morris Hall.

     

    Stations of the Cross

    Baton Rouge

    Trinity Episcopal Church, 3552 Morning Glory Ave, Baton Rouge

    • Wednesdays in Lent at 5:30 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross
    • Two self-guided outdoor walking Stations of the Cross are available. Maps and meditations are available in the church office. 

    Harvey

    St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3245 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey

    • Fridays in Lent at 6:30 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross

    Houma

    St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 243 Barrow St, Houma

    • Fridays in Lent at 5 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross

    New Orleans

    St. George’s Episcopal Church, 4600 St.  Charles Ave, New Orleans

    • Fridays in Lent at 6 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross

    St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6249 Canal Blvd, New Orleans

    • March 6 and March 27 at 6 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross: Friday evenings during Lent are an opportunity to grow closer to God through contemplation and music. We will worship through the practice of Stations of the Cross, meditative Taizé worship, and choral-led Evensong. Fridays at 6 PM.

    St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 3643 Aurora Dr, New Orleans

    • Fridays in Lent at 8 a.m.
      Stations of the Cross

    Zachary

    St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 1322 Church St, Zachary

    • Fridays in Lent at 6 p.m.
      Stations of the Cross

    Evensong / Vespers / Taize Services / Contemplative Prayer

    Baton Rouge

    St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8833 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge

    • March 8 at 5:30 p.m.
      Evensong: The service will include hymns, prayers, scripture readings, along with Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem for soloists, choir, instruments, and organ.

    Covington

    Christ Episcopal Church, 120 S. New Hampshire St, Covington

    • March 22 at 5:30 p.m.
      Evensong: Evensong is one of the treasures of the Anglican tradition. It is the Evening Prayer liturgy, consisting entirely of prayers and the Word of God, and most of it is sung. The roots of this liturgy are in the monastic daily offices, dating back to the fourth century. Over the years, a large body of rich choral music has been written for Evensong, and this glorious music illuminates the Word of God. Featuring the Christ Church Choir led by music director, Carolyn Parmenter.

    Harvey

    St. Mark’s, 3245 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey

    • Wednesdays in Lent at 10 am.
      Contemplative Prayer

    Mandeville

    St. Michael’s, 4499 Sharp Rd, Mandeville

    • Wednesdays in Lent at 12 p.m.
      Lenten Noonday Eucharist: Beginning Wednesday, March 4th, throughout Lent, every Wednesday at 12 Noon, Holy Eucharist will be offered. Come as you are to join in the presence of Christ.

    New Orleans

    St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6249 Canal Blvd, New Orleans

    • February 28 at 6 p.m.
      Evensong: Friday evenings during Lent are an opportunity to grow closer to God through contemplation and music. We will worship through the practice of Stations of the Cross, meditative Taizé worship, and choral-led Evensong. Fridays at 6 PM.

    • March 13 at 6 p.m.
      Taize: Friday evenings during Lent are an opportunity to grow closer to God through contemplation and music. We will worship through the practice of Stations of the Cross, meditative Taizé worship, and choral-led Evensong. Fridays at 6 PM.
    • March 20  at 6 p.m.
      Evensong: Friday evenings during Lent are an opportunity to grow closer to God through contemplation and music. We will worship through the practice of Stations of the Cross, meditative Taizé worship, and choral-led Evensong. Fridays at 6 PM.

    • April 3  at 6 p.m.
      Taize: Friday evenings during Lent are an opportunity to grow closer to God through contemplation and music. We will worship through the practice of Stations of the Cross, meditative Taizé worship, and choral-led Evensong. Fridays at 6 PM.

    Thibodaux

    St. John’s Episcopal Church, 718 Jackson St, Thibodaux

    • Thursdays in Lent at 6 p.m.
      Beginning March 5, on Thursday nights at 6:00pm during Lent, we will have a
       Contemplative Eucharist followed by a light supper.

     

    Christian Education Classes

    Baton Rouge

    St. Alban’s Chapel, Corner of Highland & Dalrymple (LSU Campus)

    • Sunday from 9:15-10:15 a.m.
      To encourage us all to observe the season of Lent as a time for reflection, a Book Discussion Class will be offered again this year led by Fr. Drew Rollins and other members of the congregation. This time around, our book will be David Zahl’s Seculosity: How Career, Parenting, Technology, Food, Politics, and Romance Became Our New Religion and What To Do About It (Fortress Press, 2019). Zahl gets at the driving issue behind our scrambling after today’s idols. This class will be offered on the six Sunday mornings of Lent, including Palm Sunday (March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, and April 5). We will meet in the common hall (9:15 – 10:15), with coffee and pastries available. Childcare will be provided. Everyone is encouraged to read the book, though you do not have to read the book to participate. Copies of the book are now available in the office for purchase ($18.00) or may easily be found online. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this discussion!

    St. James Episcopal Church, 205 N Fourth St, Baton Rouge

    • Sunday at 9:15 a.m.
      The class series, “So Many Epistles, So Little Time” is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. in Bishops Hall on the following Sundays: March 1, 8, 15, and 29 . “Epistles” covers selected epistles (letters) from the New Testment. Attendees will learn about the background of the early church. The class will be led by the Rev. Fr. Ralph Howe.

    St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8833 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge

    • Wednesdays in Lent at 6 p.m.
      Soup and Salvation Series: Join us Wednesday nights during Lent for homemade soup and a discussion about Following Jesus: Finding our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety, a book by Henri Nouwen. This Lenten series will begin at 6 pm in Pope Hall on March 4.

    Hammond

    Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 West Church St, Hammond

    • Tuesday from 12-1 p.m.
      Father Paul will be offering a survey on the Pastoral Offices in the Book of Common Prayer. Bring a sack lunch and join us as we take a look at the services our tradition offer us for the various stages in our lives.

    Harvey

    St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3245 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey 

    • Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
      Lenten Soup Supper & Study

    Houma

    St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 243 Barrow St, Houma

    • Sundays at 8:45 a.m.
      Adam Hamilton’s book “24 hours that changed the world”

    Mandeville

    St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 4499 Sharp Rd, Mandeville

    • Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
      Wednesday Evening Lenten Series – Beginning Wednesday, March 4th, Holy Eucharist will be offered at 6:30pm, in the church, followed by an introductory class on Episcopal Beliefs & Practices.  “Walk in Love” Episcopal Beliefs & Practices” by Scott Gunn & Melody Wilson Shobe will be the book that is used and can be purchased thru either Amazon or by ordering thru Barnes & Noble.  Having a book IS NOT NECESSARY, but some may prefer to follow along with a book.  Childcare and light refreshments will be offered.  Class will conclude no later than 8:00pm.

    New Orleans

    Christ Church Cathedral, 2919 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans

    • Monday at 1 p.m.
      Reading “Gospel Memories: The Future Can Rewrite our Past” by The Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby (Episcopal Bishop of Western LA). Meeting in Advent House, 1637 Seventh St, New Orleans. All are welcome!
    • Monday at 6 p.m.
      Lenten Book Study “Crucifixion” by Fleming Rutledge 6:00 pm in Advent House, 1637 Seventh St, New Orleans, on Mondays in March (2,9,16,23,30); Facilitator: Jesse George
    • Tuesday From 7-8 p.m.
      Each Tuesday in Lent we will gather around a soup meal to reflect upon the book The Last Week by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan as we journey through this season in preparation for Holy Week and Easter.  This group is great for those who work during the day! Dates:  Tuesdays – March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31;  Place: Dean’s Parlor (Parking available in the back lot) About the Book: Two top Jesus experts Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan explore the last seven days of Jesus s life, from his triumphal entry into Jerusalem to his march to the cross.  Their goal: To retell a story everyone thinks they know too well and most do not seem to know at all. Using the best of biblical and historical scholarship, these leading Jesus scholars shed new light on Jesus s final days in Jerusalem, revealing their true significance in history and for faith.  Rather than collapse Holy Week into its last three days, as Christian liturgy does, they use as their basis the gospel of Mark: a chronicle of Jesus s last week day-by-day and eventually hour-by-hour.”
    • Wednesdays (March 11, 18, 25 and April 1) at 1:30 -2:30 pm. or 1 Saturday class (10:00 am to 2:00 pm with lunch) on April 25.
      Lenten Study with Canon David Lowry. On April 1, 2020 the 50th anniversary of Earth Day will be commemorated around much of the world. In the fifty years since Earth Day was created most scientists have concurred that the ‘health’ of our planet has deteriorated because the average surface of the earth has risen substantially. However, the reasons for the precipitous rise in the surface temperature continue to be debated. Those who believe that the climate crisis is ‘man-made’ call upon forces of society—including religious communities—to come to the fore on the need to curb the green-house gasses to limit warming. Others (including a minority of scientists) disagree, without making alternative proposals to help protect earth’s environment. Christian denominations –as well as our Jewish sisters and brothers—have weighed in on the issue and Pope Francis’ first encyclical dealt directly about climate change. However, in reality the Old and New Testaments dealt only indirectly with the protection and preservation of the earth; the Old Testament was focused on the establishment and protection of the Israelites and the New Testament was focused on making the case that Jesus is the Messiah, God’s chosen Son, belief in him was necessary for salvation and that the end of the world was not too-far-away; in neither the Old testament nor the New Testament case was the protection of the earth’s environment tantamount. Nonetheless, people of faith are now looking for Judaism and Christianity to make statements about the environment. Following the Lenten program for clergy of the Diocese this Lent, Christ Church will offer a program on “Living Faithfully in the World that God has Given Us.” It will focus on Franciscan spirituality and emerging “Christian environmental care.” The main book to be used in the class is Ilia Delio, Care for Creation: A Franciscan Spirituality of the Earth. This book is readily available from on-line booksellers and can be obtained through local bookstores as well. Pope Francis first encyclical, Laudato Si, will also be used in the class. It is available on-line. In addition, the class will address environmental issues and environmental solutions that the people of Christ Church Cathedral can do to mitigate environmental concerns in our own community.

    Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Ave, New Orleans

    • Wednesdays in Lent from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
      On Wednesdays in Lent (March 4, 11, 18 and 25) you are invited for a 5:30 pm Celtic Eucharist celebrated by the Reverend Katherine S. McLean, and a 6:00 pm Simple Supper, followed by a variety of formation offerings from 6:30pm – 7:30pm (listed below). Childcare is available from 5:30pm – 7:30p.m.
      • Signs of Life, Why Church Matters: From the time we are born, we seek light, water, food, shelter and community. Join us for a Lenten Study designed by the Society of St. John the Evangelist and Virginia Seminary as we connect each ‘Sign of Life’ to our own spirituality, Christian worship, and a spiritual practice. Led by the Rev. Andrew Thayer
      • The Screwtape Letters: An interesting and humorous study on faith and temptation! Participants will read and discuss “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis. Together, observe Uncle Screwtape’s advice to his junior demon and nephew Wormwood on how to steer the “patient” away from the enemy, God. Led by Deacon Jay Albert

    River Ridge

    All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 100 Rex Dr, River Ridge

    • Sundays in Lent at 9 a.m.
      Five Week Lenten Study series on Strength to Love by Martin Luther King, Jr. starting March 1 at 9 a.m. in Morris Hall.

     

     Retreats

    • Lenten Quiet Day: Disciple’s Gym at St. Augustine’s
      St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 3412 Haring Rd, Metairie
      February 29 from 10 am – 2 pm
      St. Augustine’s, Metairie, is hosting a Lenten Quiet Day on Saturday, February 29, from 10am to 2:00pm. A lunch will be served. Quiet days are opportunities to take some intentional time to develop your faith and spirituality. The quiet day will be led by Father Kevin Goodrich, O.P., who is a friar under life vows in the Anglican Order of Preachers (Dominicans), one of the religious orders in the Episcopal Church and wider Anglican Communion. For centuries Christians have engaged in certain spiritual exercises to improve their spiritual fitness. This fitness has allowed them to experience God more deeply, live more fully, and be of service to others more readily. Break some spiritual sweat and take your faith to the next level. Register by clicking here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lenten-quiet-day-tickets-91700724335 or email the Rev. A.J. Heine at  ajheine@bellsouth.net
    • Lenten Silent Retreat
      Solomon Episcopal Conference Center
      February 28-March 1
      Join Todd van Alstyne and John Pitzer for a Silent Retreat for the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana and their friends during the first weekend in Lent. The retreat will be held at the Solomon Episcopal Conference Center and will include an introduction to monastic spiritual practices, adoration, a labyrinth, prayer, teaching, stations of the cross, all in a quiet and peaceful setting. This contemplative weekend will include spiritual direction and sacramental support from Fr John as well as guided meditations and teaching from Br Todd. The weekend will be full enough for you to engage and loose enough to let you rest and go at your own pace. The cost for the weekend is $315 per person for single occupancy or $285 per person double occupancy. Discount of $50 if you register prior to January 31st. We anticipate these spaces to fill up quickly so please reserve your spot soon. Registration here
    • Lenten Retreat at Grace Church
      Grace Church, 11621 Ferdinand Dr, St. Francisville
      February 29 from 9 am – 3 pm
      Mary C. Earle returns to lead another reflective Lenten Retreat at Grace Church
      On February 29th renowned theologian and Episcopal Priest, Mary C. Earle, will return to Grace to lead another riveting Lenten retreat. Throughout the day, Rev’d Earle will lead us through reflections and prayers from her book The Desert Mothers: Spiritual Practices from the Women of the Wilderness. At the dawn of Christianity, holy women went into the deserts of northern Egypt to devote themselves to lives of prayer. Almost forgotten in today’s contemporary society, now The Desert Mothers provide you with the writings of these holy women and apply their spiritual practices to modern day life. Each chapter contains a summary of the spiritual practice and a closing prayer, making it a useful tool in your devotional practice. Lunch will be provided during the retreat; purchase tickets here. We pray you can join us as we begin Lent in prayer and reflection.
    • Lenten Quiet Morning
      All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 100 Rex Dr., River Ridge
      February 29 from 9 am – 12 pm
      Ms. Eileen Mitchell will lead a series of meditations based on the theme “Reflecting the Light of Christ” with periods of reflection between the meditations. A light breakfast will be served.
    • A Gathering of Men: Connecting Soul and Role
      Solomon Episcopal Conference Center
      March 6-8
      The Retreat features an outstanding group of presenters including the Rev. Dr. Scott Stoner, founder of the Living Compass Faith-Based Wellness program, a great leader in the Anglican Communion, Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson from Calgary, Canada, The Rev. Bill Miller, and favorite musicians Matt Lemmler and Crispin Schroeder. The Retreat is centered on the Living Compass model of balance, wellness and wholeness. The weekend includes five delicious meals, a time of silence and contemplation late Friday evening, presentations on Friday evening and Saturday, optional Saturday afternoon workshops, a great concert on Saturday afternoon, renewal and play, some group discussion, fellowship and fun with our cook-out and campfire on Saturday evening, and a closing worship service on Sunday morning. It’s a weekend NOT to be missed! If you have never been to the Solomon Center, our Diocesan conference center just 30 minutes away – you are in for a treat. It is a gem of a location with excellent facilities set amid a forest with a lake. I hope you’ll sign up today for this special weekend of spiritual growth and renewal with Scott, Greg, Matt, Crispin and a great group of guys. Please invite a friend. This retreat is open to all men. See you there! More information and registration: https://christchurchcovington.com/mens-retreat/

    • Moving Your Lenten Prayers
      Solomon Episcopal Conference Center
      March 14 from 10 am – 3 pm
      Participate in movement meditations of scripture, song, and prayer which offer openings for spiritual growth. Experience stillness and peace in the busyness of life. Allow your mind, body, and spirit to express relationship with the Divine. No experience needed. All mobility levels, seated or standing, are welcome. Retreat led by Vickie Polchow and Betty Wooddy who have led sacred movement workshops at the Solomon Center for 10 years and most recently at Kanuga Episcopal Conferences in North Carolina. the $25 registration fee includes lunch and can be purchased by checks payable to St. Paul’s Holy Trinity Church, with Moving Prayers on memo line, mailed to: SPHTC; attn Betty Wooddy; P O Box 386; New Roads, LA 70760.

     

    • Lenten Quiet Day
      St. James Episcopal Church, 205 N Fourth St, Baton Rouge
      Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
      StJames will host “A Holy Journey: Transformation Through Darkness and Light”, a Lenten Quiet Day from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 28, in the Chapel of the Twelve Apostles. The day of reflection and meditation will be directed by the Rev. Canon Shannon Manning. The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided 30 minutes prior to the event start.

    Pilgrimages

    Pilgrimage to Angola and St Francisville
    March 4 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    You are invited for a midweek pilgrimage from St Margaret’s to West Feliciana Parish. Date: Wednesday, March 4, 2020. Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Cost: $25.00 per person To pay please go to our GIVE page and enter your information, pay $25 per person and in message put March 4 Pilgrimage and names of those going Click HERE to register and pay. Gather @ Saint Margaret’s at 9 a.m. Departure at 9:15 a.m. via van Tour Angola Prison Museum Lunch (included) @ Restaurant 1796 @ The Myrtles Plantation. Austin Clark Organ Concert @ Grace Episcopal Church in Saint Francisville. Tour @ Grace Church Cemetery. Tour Our Lady of Mt Carmel Roman Catholic Church in Saint Francisville. Depart St Francisville @ 3:15 p.m.. Arrival @ Saint Margaret’s @ 4 p.m. For more information please contact Catherine Buck cullybuck@gmail.com or 816-516-1234. Registration forms are also available at the church in case you want to pay by check or cash. Registration Deadline: February 28. Space is limited

    Community Outreach

    New Orleans

    St. Andrew’s, 1031 S. Carrollton Ave, New Orleans

    • Every evening at sunset
      Lenten FiresAll are invited to hold vigil each night throughout the 40 days of Lent in front of our church. Join others at sunset around a small fire pit to help shine the light of Christ in our community! S’mores supplies will be on hand.