How often have we been guilty in the church of trying to fill all those spaces of silence with words? How often do we offer a "quick prayer" to open a meeting rather than being steeped in a time of silence and centered prayer?

Also key to that time together was listening well to what others said, allowing every single voice in the room to have equal time and value. We articulated our dreams, our needs and our fears. We listened to one another. We listened to God. It was a holy time.

In conversation, Pastor Jhon Freddy and I have discussed the importance of creating an atmosphere for meditation and prayer for our Lenten journey together. On Ash Wednesday, February 22, that time of quiet and reflection (together with the imposition of ashes and Holy Communion) will be offered at noon. That evening there will also be a 7:00 p.m. bilingual service geared to families.

"Together We Pray" will be offered at 7:00 p.m. Wednesdays for adults from both the English and Spanish speaking communities of our congregation. Can-dlelight, times of silence and meditation and prayer will be the center of our Wednesday evening Lenten time together. Beginning February 29, the weekly Lenten gathering, led by Pastor Jhon Freddy, Pastor Walter and myself will be held in the sanctuary, allowing space and time for quiet reflection and centering.

Let us hold one another and Emmaus in prayer as we prepare to enter our Lenten journey together. May it be a holy time for each and every one of us.

In prayerful anticipation,