Dear Friends in Christ -
Have you seen the Lenten billboards sponsored by the Catholic Church? They invite people to accept Jesus' invitation to "BE RECONCILED" by coming to confession. This nation-wide emphasis of the Catholic Church, advertised around the country on billboards, in radio spots, and in newspapers and other print materials. Msg. Chris Walsh, Rector of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in downtown Shelton, wrote a book about reconciliation that's being featured in this emphasis on making confession.
The Catholic Church's emphasis on confession puts a spotlight on God's invitation to come to Him and to do what it takes to "get right" with Him and with others. Every time I've driven by one of the billboards, I've secretly wished that I could put little tags on all the billboards and print ad and radio spots that says, "P.S. - this works for Episcopalians, too!" Did you know that? Whether you're Catholic or Protestant, all Christians believe that confession is good medicine that clears the blocks in the arteries of our relationships.
As Episcopalians, we "confess" together every time we gather for worship (in our Sunday services, it's that prayer we say right before the peace). But sometimes that's not enough. I say that not because "big sins" need some sort of special forgiveness, but because sometimes we need to spend some time one-on-one talking about/working through a sin that has really dogged us, so that we can put it behind us permanently.
If you would like to get something off your chest and to prepare to fully experience the power of Christ's resurrection, please don't hesitate to email (revjanet@stpaulsct.org) or call (929-1722). Now is the time. Christ's power to heal and reconcile is for YOU.
Faithfully,
Janet+
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