Reflection

Lent 2024

Lent is 40 days of preparation for Easter. Christians are called to deepen their spiritual lives through prayer, fasting and almsgiving before the celebrations of Easter. It is a time to renew and restore relationships with God, ourselves and others. We can take more time to read the bible, pray, attend Mass and go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We can give up things so that we can be more mindful of how God is working in our lives.

This year Ash Wednesday is 14 February. This day will marked at the College by a prayer service in homerooms. During this service, ashes will be placed on the foreheads of students and staff in the sign of the cross with these words: 'Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel'. Ashes symbolise both our own sinfulness, our mortality and the potential for new and exciting growth in each and every one of us, young and old. They are a sign that as we start this season of Lent, we identify ourselves as followers of Jesus and start a journey with him towards Easter.

In his message for Lent 2024, Pope Francis invites us to 'pause' for prayer and to assist our brothers and sisters in need, in order to change our own lives and the lives of our communities.

We are especially reminded of those who are enduring war and conflict such as in Ukraine and the Holy Land. Also, we remember friends, family and those in the Nazareth Community who may need our help. May we consider ways in which we can act to best serve them. As we prepare for this Easter season, we must stand in solidarity as a global family, challenging ourselves to reach out to others.

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works 

and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Holy Family of Nazareth, be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth, help us to grow in Faith, Wisdom and Knowledge.