Home/Stay Informed/All Diocesan Articles

All Diocesan Articles

Roots of Reverence: Observing Lent as a Family

Posted on January 28, 2024 in: Lent

Roots of Reverence: Observing Lent as a Family

In the tapestry of Catholic traditions, Lent stands as a profound thread weaving through the fabric of faith, calling families to embark on a transformative journey. It is not merely a season marked by abstinence; rather, Lent is a pilgrimage of the heart, an opportunity for introspection and renewal.

At its core, Lent invites families to mirror the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert, a period of self-examination, prayer and penance. It serves as a reminder that amid the hustle of contemporary life, there exists a sacred space for reflection and spiritual growth. In the hallowed silence of Lent, families are invited to rekindle their connection with God.

Engage in family prayers, incorporating Lenten themes. Encourage your kids to express their thoughts and intentions during this time. 

Help your children understand the concept of fasting by encouraging them to give up a small treat or habit during Lent, or perhaps they can pick up a new habit, one that entails selflessness. Emphasize the spiritual aspect of self-discipline. 

Create a Lenten calendar with daily activities, prayers or reflections. This visual aid can help children stay engaged and excited about their Lenten journey. 

Share age-appropriate Bible stories related to Lent and discuss their meanings. This can help kids connect spiritually with the season. 

Attend Stations of the Cross services together or create a simplified version at home. This tradition can provide a powerful visual representation of Christ's journey. 

Encourage children to make small sacrifices, such as giving up a favorite snack, to cultivate a spirit of self-denial and reflection.

Have open discussions about the significance of Lent, addressing any questions or concerns your children may have. Tailor these discussions to their age level. 

Engage in creative projects that reflect Lenten themes. This could include making prayer cards, crafting crosses or creating artwork that represents the season. 

Plan meatless meals together, emphasizing simple and reflective family dinners. Use this time to discuss the importance of gratitude and mindfulness. 

Observing Lent as a family is a profound journey of faith and reflection. Through prayer, fasting and acts of charity, families can deepen their spiritual connection and instill values of compassion and selflessness in the hearts of their children. As parents guide their families through this sacred season, they contribute to the rich tapestry of shared traditions, walking together on a transformative path toward spiritual renewal and a deeper understanding of the profound sacrifice and love exemplified by Christ. +

 

By Andrea DePaola


Most Viewed Articles of the Last 30 Days

Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2025

Posted on February 25, 2025 in: News, Lent

1394

Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2025
In his message for Lent 2025, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of living one’s life as a constant journey of conversion, choosing to walk in peace and hope aside one’s fellow humans. “May the hope that does not disappoint, the central message of the jubilee, be the focus of our Lenten journey toward the victory of Easter,” the pope said in the message, released Tuesday.  He also quoted St. Paul’s exclamation in the first letter to the Corinthians: “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? W...

Read More

Laugh, Think, Cry, and Pray — Reconnecting with Faith This Lent
An Unforgettable Speech I had the privilege of working at ESPN for 13 years, and during that time, I witnessed some incredible moments that transcended sports. One of the most powerful was Jim Valvano—Jimmy V—delivering his unforgettable speech at the 1993 ESPY Awards. Battling cancer, he spoke about what makes a good day: “Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think, you should spend some time in thought. And number three is you should have your emotions moved to tears. Could be happiness or joy, but think about it. If you lau...

Read More

A Lenten Prayer to Begin the Season

Posted on February 25, 2025 in: Lent

764

A Lenten Prayer to Begin the Season
Ash Wednesday is the first day of the 40 days of Lent dedicated to prayer, fasting, and reflection in preparation for the great celebration of Christ’s Paschal Mystery in the Easter Triduum. We pray that this day marks the beginning of your spiritual renewal.  Bookmark the link below and visit it often as you observe the wonderful season of Lent!  Feel free to share this link on social media NorwichDiocese.org/Lent

Read More

Rite of Election Welcomes Catechumens on First Sunday of Lent
On Sunday, March 9, the First Sunday of Lent, the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich was filled with faith and anticipation as catechumens from across the diocese gathered for the Rite of Election. This significant step in their journey toward full initiation into the Catholic Church marks their formal enrollment in the Book of the Elect, bringing them one step closer to the Easter sacraments. With our diocese still awaiting the appointment of a new bishop, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Hartford presided over the celebration, offering words of encouragemen...

Read More

24 Hours for the Lord

Posted on March 07, 2025 in: Events, Lent, Around the Diocese

415

24 Hours for the Lord
24 Hours for the Lord Schedule Join us for 24 Hours for the Lord, a special opportunity to encounter the boundless mercy of God. This initiative, inspired by Pope Francis, invites the faithful to set aside time for prayer, reflection, and reconciliation, deepening their relationship with Christ through the sacraments. Throughout the 24-hour period, parishes across the Diocese of Norwich will offer extended hours for Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing a sacred space for personal prayer and renewal. Whether you can spend a few minutes o...

Read More

Lenten Mission to Highlight Beloved Saint for Lost Causes
A special mission at a Derby parish will include veneration of a first-class relic of St. Jude Thaddeus, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ.  The relic, an arm bone of St. Jude’s right hand, can be venerated during the “St. Jude Mission, Mass and Veneration” from March 10 to 12 at St. Mary the Immaculate Conception Church, part of Our Lady, Queen of the Apostles Parish.  Born around the year 5 A.D., St. Jude is venerated as the patron saint of lost causes and desperate situations. His intercessions have inspired devotions for centur...

Read More

Latest Articles
The Hidden Vocation: The Generous Single Life
Diocese to Host New England Basketball Tournament
Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention for the Month of March
Rite of Election Welcomes Catechumens on First Sunday of Lent
Share Easter Joy With the Children of St. Vincent de Paul Place
Norwich Diocesan Cemeteries Spring Cleanup Reminder
Lent and the Call to Generosity: Serving Christ in Others
24 Hours for the Lord
Recently Added Galleries
Click to view album: 40 Days for Life 2024
Click to view album: Blessing of the Fleet 2024
Click to view album: Mass of Ordination for Fr. Eric Carl Hosmer, Fr. Julian Felipe Cuervo-Lozada and Fr. Alexander James Pandolfe
Click to view album: Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NDCCW) 46th Annual Layette
Signup for Weekly Newsletter

     

    Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich
    201 Broadway
    Norwich, CT 06360-4328
    Phone: 860-887-9294