Zion Lutheran Church sponsors Lenten studies

By Linda Linonis | March 21, 2015 at 12:00a.m.

TIME TO HEAR GOD

Four different topics are offered.

By LINDA M. LINONIS

YOUNGSTOWN

The Rev. Duane Jesse explained that Zion Lutheran Church continues a practice in the denomination to conduct a Lenten program.

This year, the church in the Cornersburg area is offering a Lenten study on four varied topics.

“During Lent, we ask people to participate in a spiritual exercise or discipline,” Pastor Jesse said. “They can give up or take on something.”

Pastor Jesse said Lent is the time “to hear God’s voice.”

But, he pointed out, in the American culture, where it seems everyone is plugged into their phone or other device, the din overshadows God’s quiet voice.

He suggested that Lent be a time of reflection so that we can “learn from and hear God.”

The minister and Don Lepore, a church member who also is on staff with Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, are presenting “Issues Concerning Life and Death; Are You Prepared?”

The pastor said this session, being attended by some 20 people, addresses end-of-life issues.

“Most participants are older and want to make plans,” he said. “It’s their last gift to their families.”

Pastor Jesse said the session promotes the idea to make “sound and prudent decisions” before an emergency or illness occurs and while people are able and willing to participate in the decision-making process.

This might involve deciding on the kind of service and music and funeral arrangements a person wants.

Joan Gent, music director at the church, is leading “Getting a Handel on the Messiah.” This session deals with the biblical connection and inspiration for the composer.

“Claimed, Gathered and Sent,” led by Wayne and Becky Tennant, is a program by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and focuses on reclaiming Lutheran heritage.

Carol Ann Schneider, who participates in the pastor’s Bible study sessions, is leading “The 7 Habits of Jesus” based on the book by Robert Schmalzle with Aaron Schmalzle.

She summarized “the habits:”

Rembering our baptismal adoption into God’s family. Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, she said.

Listening to God’s law and Gospel voice in Scripture. God gave his only son to the world.

Praying for God’s help with all our daily needs. Jesus prayed to the Father.

Preparing. Getting ready to worship.

Returning. Going to God.

Inviting. Embracing all people.

Caring. Helping others and following the example of disciples.

This week, the Lenten study group focused on preparing.

“We should have the law of love written on our hearts,” Schneider said. “A relationship with God is a conversation.”

She said the Lord’s Prayer is a means to “listen to what God says to us individually.”

She suggested that participants consciously prepare for worship.

“Be in the sanctuary with a purpose,” Schneider said.

Schneider said oftentimes people have distractions in their lives.

“God is always there. We’re the ones who get busy and don’t hear God,” she said.

She said during quiet times, “thoughts that come into your mind are from God.”

Schneider said when people prepare for worship, they want to hear about God and realize that God forgives.

“We should be uplifted, renewed and restored,” Schneider said of participating in worship.

“When we realize how God connects and directs us, it makes our faith stronger.”

She said the sacraments “express the fullness of God’s will and we must learn to recognize God’s acts of love in the sacraments.”

The Lenten study will conclude Wednesday.