18 March 2024 · 2024-03 newsletter
Young women were invited to spend a day of reflection to prepare themselves during this time of Lent. A small group of four young women gathered in Bethany and really enjoyed the day taking away many new insights, motivations and tips for their own personal Lenten Journey.
Three short inputs were given by Sr. M. Rita:
- Focus on Jesus as the tree of love,
- Focus on us, the branches of our brokenness and
- Focus on Mary the woman under the cross.
After each talk, the young women were invited to have their own personal silent reflection, writing at least one point on a post-it note which was then added to the wall. At the end of the day each of the Post-Its were read out as a sort of summary of the key points that they could take away from […]
A particular highlight of the day was the Stations of the Cross which was prayed at different areas in the garden. In the late afternoon the young women also had the opportunity to bind their own crown of thorns that they could take home as a reminder and inspiration during Lent.
The day concluded in the Shrine with the first Shrine Time. This is a Holy Hour for youth and young adults in the shrine every fourth Sunday of the month.
A further 9 young people joined and were able to spend some time in prayer, song and reflection before the blessed Sacrament.
Fr. Peter Kruk OP was available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and gave the Eucharistic blessing at the end. At the conclusion of Shrine Time the young women were able to accept their crown of thorns which were placed upon the altar. All the young people also received a unity cross as a reminder that Mary and Jesus also go along with us on our daily journey which sometimes may also be a way of the cross.
Afterwards there was a short and joyful gathering in the Pilgrim Centre with refreshments.
Sr M. Rita
Filed underNewsletter · Youth