Written by Jane Scupham, principal
Lent--Does it bring to mind tuna noodle casserole and fish sticks? Or does it make you think about having to “give up” something? Or is it quickly forgotten as soon as the ashes are washed off? I saw a still-faint smudge of ashes on a student’s forehead on Friday morning when I was a Eucharistic minister and I had to smile. At first I thought how the student’s mother would be appalled that the child hadn’t washed so well. (How can they stand in the shower for hours and not have the water touch them?!) But later I kept thinking how that faint smudge is a great representation of the season of Lent. Thoughts of Lenten sacrifice should be skimming the surface of our consciousness, keeping us aware that this time of year is different from the rest.
As Christian parents it is our duty to see that our children are educated in the traditional Lenten practices of prayer, sacrifice and almsgiving. We should strive to make this Lenten season something that is honored in our families. 40 days seems too long? How about as a family breaking Lent into weekly acts of prayer, sacrifice or almsgiving? Choose an activity that can be done as a family that fits into your busy schedules and reflects the spirit of Lent. One week you might pray as a family for your own special intentions or attend a reconciliation service as a family. The following week could be devoted to talking about the abundance we have as a nation and finding items within your own home to bless those with far less. The options are endless, but the point is to keep the spirit of Lent alive in your home; to have that smudge of ashes always there reminding you and your children of the true purpose of Lent.
“Lent is like a long ‘retreat’ during which we can return to ourselves and listen to the voice of God.” -Pope Benedict XVI