2.17.2026 PBPC Family Bulletin
PBPC Family,
Today is the last day before the season of Lent, known as Pancake, Shrove, or Fat Tuesday. Three different names for the same day. Though they overlap, each has a unique history and connection to the beginning of Lent.
Pancake Tuesday - Traditionally, Christians have fasted from animal products during Lent. In an effort to put their eggs, milk, and butter to good use, families would make pancakes on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It was a way to prepare for Lenten fasting. Even if you are not refraining from animal products during Lent, I encourage you to make pancakes tonight as a way to prepare for Lent.
Shrove Tuesday - "Shrove" comes from the English word "shrive" which means to give absolution to someone's sins through the practice of confession. Shrove Tuesday is an invitation to take stock of your life, consider where you have fallen short of the glory of God, and confess those things. This confession is a way of preparing for Lent and can be helpful in discerning what you need to fast from and what you need to practice during Lent.
Fat Tuesday - Also known as Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday is the last day of celebration before the Lenten season of fasting and repentance. Traditionally, it is a chance to feast and joyfully celebrate the arrival of Lent. It is the last day of celebration before a long season of fasting. We won't celebrate again until Easter when we rejoice in the empty tomb and Christ's victory over sin and death. Fat Tuesday has morphed into a day of indulgence and partying - a chance to be as sinful as possible before entering the season of repentance (though the season of repentance has been lost in the shuffle). While there is a place for celebration tonight, I'm not sure trying to fill out your "Sin Bingo Card" is what God has in mind!
As we draw near to the beginning of Lent, I encourage you to reflect on these two questions - we'll be exploring them together in our Lenten journey
- In what ways is Jesus inviting me to take up my cross?
- What do I need to lay down so I can pick up that cross?
Looking forward to worshipping with you on Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Calvin
"Carry Your Cross"
Matthew 16:24, 1 Corinthians 2:2
Calvin Sodestrom
Pre-Service prayer in the Cafe from 9:30-9:45
- Tapestry Church hosts a morning service. 7:30am at 2744 E. 11th Street, Oakland.
- Oakland City Church offers the imposition of ashes at noon at their church (2735 Macarthur Blvd).
- New Hope Covenant Church has an evening service from 7:00-8:00pm at 1940 23rd Avenue. Please RSVP with the above link.