Catholic Identity

Lent: A Time of Renewal

Next Wednesday we begin the season of Lent. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal as we prepare for Easter. It lasts for 40 days, reminding us of Jesus’ time in the desert, where He fasted and prayed. During Lent, we are called to deepen our relationship with Jesus through three key practices: Fasting, Almsgiving, and Prayer.

Fasting: More than just giving up food, fasting is about making space for God. This could mean reducing screen time, cutting back on unnecessary spending, or letting go of habits that distract from faith.
Almsgiving: Lent is a time to be generous and serve others. You might donate to a charity, support a parish initiative, or simply offer time to someone in need. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Prayer: Deepen your connection with Jesus by setting aside time for prayer each day. This could include reading Scripture, attending Mass, praying the Rosary, or keeping a gratitude journal focused on God’s blessings.

Lenten Events at St. Kilian’s

To support our students and families during Lent, we invite you to join us for the following events:

🙏 Facebook Weekly Prayer – Join us online for a short evening Lenten prayer, bringing our community together in faith.

As we journey through Lent, may these practices and events help us grow in faith and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.

Gospel Reflection

1st Sunday in Lent

Summary

After being baptised, Jesus goes into the desert for 40 days, where He fasts and prays. During this time, the devil tries to tempt Him three times. First, the devil tells Jesus to turn a stone into bread because He is hungry. Jesus refuses, saying, “Man does not live on bread alone.” Next, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if He worships him. Jesus again refuses, saying, “Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.” Finally, the devil challenges Jesus to jump off the highest point of the temple, saying that God’s angels will protect Him. Jesus responds, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” After these temptations, the devil leaves, and Jesus continues His mission.

Reflection

This story teaches us about self-control, faith, and standing firm in what is right. Jesus shows that even when we are struggling, we should not give in to temptation. He reminds us that trusting God and following His teachings is more important than taking the easy way out.

For us, temptations might come in different ways—like cheating on a test, being unkind to someone, or giving up when things get tough. Jesus’ example encourages us to make good choices, rely on God’s strength, and stay true to what is right, even when it’s hard.

What are some temptations you face in everyday life?
How can you respond to challenges in a way that shows faith and trust in God?
Why do you think Jesus chose to resist the devil’s temptations?
How can prayer and scripture help us when we feel tempted?

Gospel

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1-13

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit through the wilderness, being tempted there by the devil for forty days. During that time he ate nothing and at the end he was hungry. Then the devil said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to turn into a loaf.’ But Jesus replied, ‘Scripture says: Man does not live on bread alone.’

Then leading him to a height, the devil showed him in a moment of time all the kingdoms of the world and said to him, ‘I will give you all this power and the glory of these kingdoms, for it has been committed to me and I give it to anyone I choose. Worship me, then, and it shall all be yours.’ But Jesus answered him, ‘Scripture says:

You must worship the Lord your God,

and serve him alone.’

Then he led him to Jerusalem and made him stand on the parapet of the Temple. ‘If you are the Son of God,’ he said to him ‘throw yourself down from here, for scripture says:

He will put his angels in charge of you

to guard you,

and again:

They will hold you up on their hands

in case you hurt your foot against a stone.’

But Jesus answered him, ‘It has been said:

You must not put the Lord your God to the test.’

Having exhausted all these ways of tempting him, the devil left him, to return at the appointed time.

Prayer

Dear God, Thank You for always being with me, especially when I face challenges and temptations. Help me to be strong like Jesus, to make good choices, and to trust in You. When I feel tempted to do the wrong thing, remind me of Your love and guidance. Give me the courage to stand up for what is right and to follow Your path every day.

Amen.

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