02/18/2026
Unity and Division is the Lenten theme for the Hopewell Churches
The Hopewell Council of Churches host Wednesday gatherings each week during Lent. Our theme this year is "Unity and Division." Here is an excerpt from our Lenten letter... (a link to the full letter is in the comments.)
In the spirit of unity, the Hopewell Council of Churches’ clergy and laity affirm Pope Leo XIV’s invitation to “give up for Lent” the divisive and abusive language that hurts, offends, and marginalizes others. The text of Pope Leo’s invitation reads:
“… I would like to invite you to a very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbor. Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves. Instead, let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media, and in Christian communities. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.”
We invite you to join us in this Lenten endeavor and to gather with us on Wednesday evenings over the next six weeks to affirm and support one another. Schedule is below.
