First Sunday of Lent
The Gospel for this First weekend of Lent describes the Lord’s journey into the desert and the temptations that he experienced during the course of his time there. We enter into a period of 40 days of preparation and renewal during this season and the same temptations that Jesus experienced are common to us all. We do at times think that we can live by bread alone- that we don’t need God. We create false Gods of so many lesser temporal things rather than worshipping God alone. We can at times put God to the test and fail to trust and place our lives in God’s care. May we begin this time of Lent with willing and generous hearts open to allowing the Lord renew us in his image and help us to walk in his ways.
Instead of Choral Evening Prayer this Sunday adults from across the Diocese who are preparing to be received into the Church at Easter will attend a Service of the Word at 3pm, led by Archbishop McMahon, at which they will be enrolled in readiness for the Sacraments of Initiation. The whole church is encouraged to join them on this journey of faith throughout the season of Lent. There will be a smaller number of candidates this year due to the effects of Covid restrictions but it is great that we are able to have this service this year. There are three candidates from our Cathedral parish to be enrolled; one for baptism and the others for confirmation and reception into the church.
Here are a few ideas for Lenten resolutions. We will have communal Stations of the Cross every Wednesday of Lent in the Crypt after 12.15pm Mass. If you are not able to join us or are short of time you can always make a private visit to the Cathedral and pray your own Way of the Cross using the Sean Rice sculptures to focus your prayer and reflection.
There is Exposition in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel every Friday from 4-5pm for private prayer and adoration. There are a choice of times for Masses during the week throughout Lent if you would want to attend the Eucharist more frequently during this season.
With the invasion of Ukraine continuing we are witnessing a considerable humanitarian crisis both in Ukraine and neighbouring European countries with families having to flee to safety. There are opportunities for us to respond by offering practical help. There is a direct way in which we can make donations by text. There will also be collection points set up after the weekend for certain items of clothing and goods etc which can be donated. Please check the website next week for information.
Texts to HELP UKRAINE
70085; – £2,
70450; – £3,
70460; – £5,
70470; – £10.
(Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.)
