ST. LOUIS – On March 5th, the St. Louis Immanuel Community Church held its Ash Wednesday service, ushering in the Lenten season of repentance and reflection. The pastor delivered a sermon emphasizing the importance of self-examination, dying to worldly desires, and embracing Christ’s suffering.

Following the service, members joined in prayer to begin their 40-day Lenten journey with humility and perseverance. Lent calls believers to spiritual renewal, preparing their hearts for the joy of resurrection.

The Meaning of Ash Wednesday

The tradition of marking ashes on the forehead symbolizes repentance and acknowledging sin. A personal reflection recalls witnessing this practice for the first time in America, highlighting its deep spiritual significance. Lent encourages believers to confront sin, ensuring its true death through repentance.

Embracing the Lenten Journey

STL Immanuel Church provides devotional materials for guiding members through this sacred season. Lent is a time of self-examination, calling for endurance through physical and spiritual challenges.

Suffering in Faith

Suffering, both physical and spiritual, plays a vital role in faith. Whether through ministry efforts, missionary work, or personal trials, believers are reminded that hardships refine their devotion. Christ’s greatest suffering was not just physical but in loving those who rejected Him—an example for all to follow.

A Call to Transformation

As Lent progresses, the pastor encourages members to reflect on suffering’s role in strengthening faith. Through this journey, believers are called to embody enduring love, trusting that the path of sacrifice leads to the glory of resurrection.