February 16, 2026
Good Evening Allen Temple Family,
Hoping this note finds you well.
Our journey begins - a journey millions take worldwide. This journey is not to a dream destination or a chosen location on life's bucket list. This journey leads to a Cross.
Lent is upon us. Beginning February 18 with Ash Wednesday, our 40-day trek begins. This season is historically characterized by fasting, giving, and prayer. With the imposition of Ashes for Catholics and many other Christians, it a sobering reminder that we are made from dust and to dust we will return. Believers are asked to sacrifice: give up something for Lent. We know the things...
The question in the air for me has been, ”Lord how do we fast in a famine?” There is a famine of peace; a famine of love; a famine of justice, and the list goes on. Surely, having experienced such societal and personal loss- the idea of giving up anything else seems more like robbery than devotion.
We have focused this month on our identity in Christ. Scripture has reminded us that we have been chosen and belong to God. This truth has reframed how I will engage the journey this year. In addition to this idea of sacrifice, repentance, and reflection is the notion of "Ad Deum". It is a Latin phrase that means to/toward God. Lent is not just about what we give up. It is also what we take on. So, I have decided to identify something to engage in consistently over the next 40 days that moves me Ad Deum: Toward God!
We are blessed that two ministries have collaborated to help us along the Journey. You are invited to join us for Lent 2026: A Journey to the Cross! Together, we will reflect, reconnect and serve in ways that will move us TOWARD GOD!
I can't say I am ready. Lent is much earlier this year! But I am willing...Are you? If so, let me know.
Let the Journey begin…
Blessings and Triumph to You!
