Lenten Teaching Series: The Return of the Prodigal Son (Three Sundays)
In our Ash Wednesday service, we are invited to observe a Holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance. To be sure, a Holy Lent is an inward journey of self-examination, but it should move us in how we are with others. The late Henri Nouwen’s book, The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming is a reflection on the gospel story and a meditation on Rembrandt’s painting by the same name. Nouwen invites us to a time of self-examination by placing ourselves in the place of each character of the painting: the father, the elder son, and the younger son.
Jim Mathes is offering a three-part series based on Nouwen’s book for three Sundays in Lent. While reading the book is encouraged for all, especially those who want to participate in any of these sessions (it is 139 pages and can be purchased online $23 at Amazon.ca), all are invited to come whether they’ve read the book or not.
- · March 8 The Younger Son and coming to ourselves: Being human and repentance
- · March 15 The Elder Son and missed joy: Ego, fear, and anger
- · March 22 The Father and the Heart of God: Relentless longing and love
We will meet Sundays in the Sanctuary from 11:40 am to 12:30 pm.