In 2020, the regular structures that help us to live a life of faith, and grow in our relationship with Jesus were largely absent due to the global pandemic. Without access to the sacraments or our parish communities, our faith lives felt stripped back, laid bare. It was perhaps a "wake up call" for many of us—a call to reflect deeply on our relationship with Jesus and be more attentive to ensuring its growth.
This year’s Lenten resources are designed to provide an invitation to reflect on the way and person of Jesus, renew ourselves in his love and recommit ourselves to the path of discipleship.
One of the resources is a guided multimedia reflection on the Way of the Cross, drawing predominantly on the Gospel of Mark. St Mark invites us to listen attentively to Jesus, the beloved Son of God, to look closely at his actions and faithfulness to his mission, and to follow decisively his path as disciples. Mark reveals that suffering is part of the journey of discipleship, but Jesus' way of love and fidelity promises us new life.
This resource features the work of the late Melbourne sculptor Leopoldine (Poldi) Mimovich whose beautifully carved Stations of the Cross reside in the Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Deepdene. They follow the scriptural Way of the Cross inaugurated by Pope John Paul II rather than the traditional Stations many would be used to.
This video resource incorporates images, scripture, reflection and prayer. It may be used by groups, families or individuals, in a parish or home setting or in an online prayer forum (e.g. via Zoom).
As you journey with this Way of the Cross, may this ancient form of prayer—for all times and for all seasons—invite and enable you to reflect, renew your faith and recommit your life to Jesus.
The multimedia reflection on the Way of the Cross and parish templates for Lent (real estate boards and prayer cards) will be available from early February. Parishioners and parish leadership teams are also invited to an online event, to be held in March, looking at how we can deepen our relationship with Jesus this Easter Time. Stay tuned for more details.