I don't know of any Episcopal Church that does not enhance their offerings in Lent; extra liturgies, study groups, quiet days, retreats are standard for us Anglicans.  We, who are notorious for not asking each other about our faith lives and practices (how impolite!- hear some tongue in cheek here), have no problem talking publicly about Lenten disciplines (that alone, the freedom of talking like this in Lent, is worth much consideration itself).

Thus, as Lent is not unto itself, but preparation for the experience of, the living into, Easter and the season of resurrection, I wonder why our energies and offerings are not ramped up even more during the 50 days of Easter?  Why no 'Emmaus Fellowship Groups' (groups where we talk about finding the Risen One as we walk through 50 days), or "Tomb Groups" (where we share finding life amid the places of our lives we thought dead, unable to bring life)?  What about fishing sightings, breakfast on the beach sighting or upper room sighting groups?

Even as we at All Souls have not planned any Wednesday night Emmaus or Tomb groups, we can turn these days into more than simply catching our breath after a robust Lent and Holy Week.  It can be as simple as asking one another where we have seen the Risen One during these 50 days.  I know that might make our Anglican/Episcopal hearts skip a beat, but that might not be all bad.  For as the folks heading to Emmaus said after realizing it had been the Risen Christ in their midst, "Did not our hearts burn as he spoke to us?"

The Risen One is in our midst, appearing daily as the saying goes.  Where have you seen the Risen Christ?  Where have you had your hope rekindled?  Where has your heart/soul/mind throbbed with the sense of something new in our midst?

Blessed 50 Days,

Todd Donatelli