As we've all become aware of the needs of the people of Japan following their horrific disaster and continuing concerns for their safety, there are several things we can do to help.  This is from the CBF ChurchWorks newsletter:

As the tragedy unfolds in Japan following a major earthquake and tsunami, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship is channeling its response through its ministry partners around the world, including the Japan Baptist Convention and Asia Baptist Pacific Aid.  Right now the best way for you to respond is by giving financially to the reilef and recovery effort.  Donations can also be mailed to: Japan relief account #17019, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, 2930 Flowers Road South, #133, Atlanta, GA 30341.  The Fellowship does not have field personnel in Japan, but our thought and prayers are with our brothers and sisters of the Japan Baptist Convention as they respond to this devastating event.  You can also keep up-to-date on the latest news from Japan on CBF's blog (cbfportal.wordpress.com).

You can also give to Japan relief efforts through Baptist World Aid, the relief arm of the Baptist World Alliance.  Their donation website is:  www.bwanet.org/bwa.php?site=general&id=4

As of yesterday, Ash Wednesday, we (the worldwide Church) are in the season of Lent.  Here's a great description of what Lent is and how we acknowledge and practice it. 

"The season of Lent begins with the observance of Ash Wednesday and ends the day before Easter Sunday.  This forty day season (the Sundays are not counted in the forty) is a time to reflect on one's journey of faith, to examine our relationships, and to become a part of the story of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and the cross.  

Like Advent, Lent is a contemplative season.  A time of preparation for Easter, Lent if often regarded as a penitential season when we examine our lives and repent or gain a new perspective or path forward.  Christians often take up special spiritual practices during Lent such as fasting and observing extra times of Sabbath, study, and prayer,  The popular practice of "giving up something" for Lent really has nothing to do with exercising one's self-control.  Rather, it is a way to make space in our regular routines to allow God to do something new in our lives." (from www.rethinkingyouthministry.com)