In the First Reading (Joel 2:12-18), we were urged to turn to God in times of despair and struggle, “for he is all tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in graciousness, and ready to relent.”

Similarly, our Second Reading (2 Cor 5:20-6:2) called us to be ambassadors for Christ, for he is appealing to and through us during this sacred time of Lent. We were reminded that “Now is the favourable time; this is the day of salvation.” On Ash Wednesday, we began the journey of consciously practising and nourishing the three key components of Lent; Prayer, Almsgiving and Fasting. 

Earlier in the week, at our Mission Assembly, we were called to go into Lent with intent. This may look different to everyone, whether it involves giving up a luxury or guilty pleasure or taking up a new habit and positive, spiritual mindset. But as we were reminded in our Ash Wednesday Gospel passage (Mt 6:1-6. 16-18), we must not parade our good deeds for the validation and approval of others. Lent is an incredibly spiritual time in which we are rewarded by God and God alone for our motivations and intentions. We are invited to make our prayers personal and our fasting discrete, for 

“no one will know you are fasting except your Father who sees all that is done in secret, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.”

After receiving ashes from our Year Coordinators and participating in song and worship guided by our beautiful St Patrick’s College Liturgy Band, we were sent out with love and goodwill in our hearts. So, in this period of immense temptation, remember to look towards Jesus as a source of inspiration and guidance as we navigate the great journey of Lent.

Holly B - Year 11 Mission Council