Pastoral note, from Garrett

What are you doing for Lent? It’s almost here. Lent isn’t just a time for Catholics to eat fish. It’s like Spring Training for Christians. It’s a time of intentional spiritual practice that prepares us for Easter. And we have a lot going on before and after Ash Wednesday. First, the Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday. Look for an email about this in the coming days. Pancakes and Conversation is an event for all ages on Tuesday, February 17, at 6:30 p.m. in Maresh Hall (including special activities for children). 

Diana Bridges will lead “Rule of Life” classes on Feb 15 and 22. Join us for a Rule of Life class led by spiritual director and minister Diana Bridges on the Sunday before Lent begins and the First Sunday of Lent. This two-week class will invite participants to reflect on rhythms and practices that help create space for God, neighbor, and self in everyday life. Together, we’ll consider how a simple, life-giving rule can ground us as we enter the Lenten season with intention and grace.

On February 16, February 23, and March 2, we invite you to join us for a three-week film and discussion series exploring the relationship among faith, freedom, and public life. Each evening at 7 p.m., we’ll watch a film—Bad Faith, God & Country, and the classic Inherit the Wind—followed by about 30 minutes of guided conversation. In partnership with the San Antonio chapter of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, this series is not about telling people what to think politically, but about creating space for thoughtful reflection on a question Baptists have long cared about: how the separation of church and state protects authentic faith, freedom of conscience, and religious liberty for all. As some of these films examine the growing influence of Christian nationalism and the entanglement of religion and partisan politics, we will approach them with humility, curiosity, and trust—listening well, asking honest questions, and considering what faithfulness looks like in our time. 
Grace and peace, 
Garrett Vickrey
Senior Pastor