Medina UCC begins Lenten series Feb. 18

Medina United Church of Christ, Congregational (Medina UCC), will begin the Lenten season with an Ash Wednesday worship service Feb. 18 at 7 p.m.

The service, which will include the imposition of ashes, will be held in the sanctuary at 217 E. Liberty St. in Medina.

The church’s Lenten worship series, “A Guide to Deconstruction and Reconstruction,” will continue Sunday mornings from Feb. 22-March 29, concluding on Palm Sunday. Inspired by theologian Peter Rollins’ study Atheism for Lent, the series will explore themes of deconstruction, described as “letting go,” and reconstruction, or “leaning in,” paralleling the Lenten journey from ashes to resurrection.

“Lent is traditionally a time of fasting, reflection and spiritual honesty. We’ll create space for deep questioning and unflinching honesty, even doubt,” said the Rev. Luke Lindon. “The goal isn’t nihilism but spiritual rebirth and encountering God beyond idols and illusions.”

Sunday worship is held at 8:15, 9 and 10:30 a.m., with the 10:30 a.m. service livestreamed at uccmedina.org/live.

Medina UCC will also partner with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church to offer an interactive readers theater program, “The Trial of Judas Iscariot.” The program will run Wednesdays from Feb. 25-March 25 at 7 p.m. at Medina UCC, beginning with a brief worship service followed by the readers theater and a discussion asking, “What was Judas guilty of and why?”