It’s hard to believe that spring is right around the corner.
Some of our clients are still getting snow, but we’re getting wonderful spring time weather. The trees are in bloom and the daffodils are screaming yellow!
Lent is upon us. But have you noticed that it seems later this year? You’re right! Lent is the 40 days (actually 46 days; but that’s a whole other blog) before Easter.
And Easter is determined by a weird calculation:
Easter falls on the first Sunday following the first ecclesiastical full moon that occurs on or after the day of the vernal equinox.
Therefore Easter can’t be an later than April 25th.
And this year, it will fall on April 24th. This is the latest it’s been in decades and won’t be this late again until 2095.
So what does that mean for the Church?
- Late means warm. When Easter is really early, there’s always the threat of snow and cold weather. This year, we’re almost guaranteed warm weather. So plan something outside! Or consider doing something that utilizes your outside facilities.
- Extra time to prepare. Late Easter means you have a bit more time to prepare. It doesn’t come quickly on the heels of Christmas. Use the time wisely! Unchurched people often mention that they will attend an Easter service if they’re invited. Make sure your congregation invites them to something!
- Anticipation. The unofficial kickoff to spring is Easter. And people are going to anticipate it this year. Especially after the winter we’ve had. The longer you wait, the more excitement can build. Use this to create momentum.
Of course, as soon as Easter is done, summer is upon us. But maybe I’m getting ahead of myself a bit. Use this time of lent to focus on Christ — and on ways to “compel people to come” to Him. We’d love to help.
