2026 Lenten Worship Series
Why did Jesus have to die? It’s one of the most important—and most difficult—questions of the Christian faith. For centuries, believers have looked at the cross and wondered: What really happened there? What does Jesus’ death mean for us? And most of all: What does the cross reveal about the heart of God? During this six-week Lenten series, inspired by Adam Hamilton’s teaching, we will explore the many biblical images and metaphors that help us understand the meaning of Jesus’ death. No single explanation captures the whole truth, but together they reveal something astonishing: Jesus did not die because God demanded a sacrifice—Jesus died because God loves us with a love that would not let us go.
Each week, we’ll look at a different angle of the cross—the problem of sin, Jesus’ loving substitution, the ransom that sets us free, the sacrifice that restores us, the Savior who suffers with us, and the victory that breaks the power of death.
Through Scripture, reflection, worship, and honest questions, we’ll discover that the cross is not a symbol of fear or shame, but the clearest expression of God’s relentless, redeeming love for the world. And then, on Easter morning, we will see the full picture: The cross makes sense because love lives. Christ is risen, and hope has the final word.
Learn more about these worship services and other events below, and make plans to celebrate the best day ever. We look forward to seeing you!
Activities for Lent
Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It is a time to draw closer to Christ as we prepare our hearts for Easter. This year, we invite you to enter the season in a new and joyful way with our Arcola Lenten Bingo Challenge!
Each square offers a simple, meaningful way to pray, serve, connect, worship, and grow in your faith. Complete as many challenges as you can during Lent. We'd love it if you send us pictures as you go to share in Worship!
Lenten Service Project
This Lenten season, we are collecting personal care items to replenish our Hygiene Pantry. We continue to serve approximately 27 families with 270 items delivered each month. Your donations are a simple and meaningful way to practice generosity, compassion, and service as we journey together through Lent. There will be a table in the Narthex to drop off the items or you can order directly from Amazon and have them delivered to church. You may bring your donations each week or donate all at one time.
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Palm Sunday at Arcola is a joyful, family-friendly day as we begin Holy Week together. We'll gather for worship at 9 & 11am, each service featuring a Palm Sunday Parade that celebrates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Between services, everyone is invited to our Eggstravaganza Hour at 10am, filled with fun, connection, and Easter joy for all! The Eggstravaganza is a multigenerational event designed to engage the entire congregation through stations throughout the Narthex, Ruth Hall, and outdoor spaces! Also a special visit from the Easter bunny! We encourage everyone to stay for fellowship, connection, and all the joy this special time of year brings! There will be a traditional Easter egg hunt from 10:45-11am!
A somber night as we come together to remember the events after Palm Sunday that lead to the crucifixion and death of Jesus. We will begin with communion to commemorate the Last Supper and follow this with a service of darkness. The service of darkness portion is to remember the passion of Jesus Christ who was willing to be betrayed into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon a cross for you and for me.
