Lent 2022 Virtual Resources

1. CARVE OUT TIME

Together as a family try to schedule some intentional time for prayer and reflection each week as we draw closer to the great feast of Easter. When can you gather together to pray? Do you have a calendar in the home? Try counting down the 40 days of Lent with little footprints, stickers or stamps marking your journey towards the celebration of Holy Week. Remember to mark the Sacred Sundays during the Lenten Season in a special way as these are exclusive of the 40 days of preparation.

2. SET THE SCENE

Create an intentional space for prayer. Working together to create a prayer centre in the home can be a lovely opportunity for the creativity of your family members to shine. Make sure the space you choose is comfortable and inviting for all children present. Think about utilizing signs and symbols from the Church to heighten awareness to the importance of this prayer time; candles, a Crucifix, a purple cloth, a Bible and signs and symbols of spring. If someone in the family is musical, the inclusion of music always elevates prayer.

3. KEEP IT SIMPLE

Engage in prayer and the Celebration of the Word throughout the Lenten season in ways that are simple and accessible for your family. Use the suggested Liturgy Guides and resources found on our website. After Sunday Eucharist, share with one another what you heard in the Gospel and any takeaways from the Homily. Utilize your favourite prayer to root your family prayer each day.

4. EMBRACE LENTEN RITUALS

Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving are important Lenten rituals that help us strengthen our relationship with God. A prayer routine invites God into the day-to-day pulse of our homes. Fasting is the action of choosing to go without something we enjoy. Traditionally, most Christians refrain from eating meat on Friday. Try to schedule "Fish Friday" on the menu. Almsgiving is an important act of sacrifice during Lent. Almsgiving is not necessarily a financial sacrifice, but giving of time and talents to serve those in need. Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving help us give the best of ourselves for God's glory.

5. KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING

Take time throughout the season of Lent to talk about the importance of preparing well for Easter. Consider these conversation starters in the home:

• God calls us to work hard to show our love for Him and for one another during Lent through prayer, fasting and sharing all that we have. How is God calling you to grow this Lent?
• Jesus sacrificed His life on the Cross out of love for us. Sometimes sacrifice is hard, but it can bring life to others. What have you sacrificed out of love for another today?
• How can our family continue to prepare for the joy of Easter?