First Congregational United Church of Christ
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What is Lent?

Lent is a Christian season of self-examination lasting the 6 weeks leading up to Easter.  The season moves on the calendar from year to year based on the spring equinox, celebrating the increasingly longer days of the year.  As a reminder for Christians to look to God rather than physical things for their wholeness, some take on the practice of giving something up for Lent. Whenever they desire this thing that they have given up, they are reminded to pray for God to sustain them. Items commonly given up are certain foods or forms of entertainment.  It has also become popular to not only give something up but to add a practice during Lent, like going to church regularly or adding a daily prayer time.  

Who are we? 

​We're located at the corner of Juliette and Poyntz...right where we've been since a group of abolitionists founded our church in the 1850s. (Okay, so we're mostly online these days because we're doing our part to keep people safe, but that's where our building is!) We are a group of open-minded, big-hearted Christ-followers who are committed to working for justice and loving all, just as Jesus has taught us to do. 

If you have questions about our congregation or the events happening this season, please contact us. ​​

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Ash Wednesday
February 17

Ash Wednesday is a Christian tradition that prepares us for the Lenten season before Easter.  The reasons Christians receive ashes on the forehead are twofold: 1. As a call to grieve and repent from the ways they have become separated from God and Neighbor and 2. As a humble reminder of the dust from which we came and the dust to which we’ll return.

We invite you to observe Ash Wednesday at home this year. Set aside a time to  gather with your family (household, extended, chosen, church!) and use the at-home worship guide. Pick up your ashes and worship guide (along with this year's Lenten devotional!) at the Lent Pick Up on Feb. 7th OR stop by the literature box outside the office doors after Feb. 7th to pick up. You can also contact the church office if you need anything mailed or prefer an electronic devotional.

Download the at-home worship guide (password is on your ashes or e-mail the office to get it)


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Lenten Adult Class

Sundays at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom
Feb. 21 - Mar. 28: Lenten Class on

Short Stories by Jesus by Amy-Jill Levine

Learn about Dr. Levine and the book here. ​

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Photos Needed

What is the Spirit inviting us to SEE during this holy season? What does God want us to KNOW deep in our bones? Click to learn more about the photos we are seeking to use in Lenten worship and then submit your photos here. 
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Lengthen Your Faith This Lent

Whether you like to pray alone or with others...are into artsy stuff or just want words, words, words....are looking for a daily, weekly, or occasional practice...WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED! Click to read Pastor Caela's invitation to lengthen your faith this Lent and see all the options available as you choose your own Lenten adventure. 

Once you've decided what you're doing, please click to fill out a two-minute survey to let us know your plans. That way we can support you and even connect you with others who are on the journey with you (if you'd like!).
YouTube Playlist: Lenten Options
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First Congregational United Church of Christ 
700 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502
785-537-7006

© 2015 First Congregational United Church of Christ. All Rights Reserved.