This year, the National Marist Youth Ministry (MYM) team have invited young adults from across our Province to take part in an online International Lenten Program. As we know, Lent is a shared journey of prayer, reflection, and community. For many young adults, the experience is a meaningful Lenten practice, providing an opportunity to grow spiritually and consider how they are called to live with greater compassion, justice, and hope.
Over the six weeks of Lent, participants gather online each week for a Sunday night to pray and reflect on the second reading and Gospel for the corresponding Sunday. After the formal reflection/presentation, participants take part in small group discussions. The international nature of the program makes it especially enriching, as participants hear one another’s stories, perspectives, and experiences of faith, discovering both the diversity and unity that exists across our Province. We are grateful to our special guest presenters, James Hodge, Erica Langley and Br Tony Leon.
The program also has time for some fun and ‘laughs,' as participants are invited to take part in online ice breaker games. These games ensure participants get to know each other a little better in a more informal and relaxed way.
As the journey of Lent leads towards Easter, the International Lenten Program reminds participants that faith is not lived alone, but within a community that stretches across borders and cultures.
Jeni Miller
Regional Coordinator
Marist Youth Ministry NSW/ACT