This free and accessible Lenten resource is ideal for parish/school groups or for anyone seeking some personal reflection time. A reflection has been prepared for each of the five weeks of Lent and follows three simple steps (1. Be Still 2. Gospel Reading 3. Respond). Suggested songs for each week have also been provided --- all you need to do is press play! 

 

 

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Each weekly reflection has the Sunday gospel as its focus and it supplemented by recorded music (scroll down to view all videos). The format of the resource is as follows:

A way of being invited into a sacred space for reflection is to light a candle. It may be appropriate to have a cross or another symbol to assist with this. A suggested song to commence is Stay with Me, the sentiment of which is drawn from Matthew’s passion reading. You can listen to/watch this song online by clicking on the PLAY button in the document. A simple gathering prayer is offered and then the gospel.

• Read the Sunday gospel 

• Ponder
  The Sunday Lenten gospel readings provide many riches for contemplation and conversation. The approach offered here is to read the gospel, note key phrases and words that speak to the reader and then read the gospel in a contemplative manner a second time. (Given the length of some Lenten gospels, it may be appropriate to pause at key moments in the reading to allow for reflection.) After this second reading other thoughts may rise in the heart of the reader or there may be a stronger connection with the initial reaction. If time permits, a third reading of the gospel may be appropriate. If working with a group this could then be followed by a conversation about the ideas and thoughts raised in the minds of the readers.
  
  
• Reflect
  A short reflection is offered about an aspect of the gospel which may assist the reader in their focus for the relevant week of lent. Reflections written by Cathy Jenkins (Director, Archbishop's Office for Evangelisation) 

A suggested song (scroll down) could provide a way of drawing together some of the thoughts arising from the focus on the gospel and then a short prayer is provided as a starting point. You can listen to/watch this song online by clicking on the PLAY button in the document (note: an online connection is required).  

Music reflections for each week