A New Twist to Lent by Bridget Mary Meehan ARCWP

As a child I gave up candy for Lent and attended more Masses and religious services. Then as an adult, for years, I went on a glorified diet, calling it a fast. While I was happy to lose 5 pounds, it really did not help me grow spiritually!


Now I focus on listening, loving and giving. I see Lent as a journey in inner transformation and outward action. This is way more challenging than glorified diets or saying extra prayers.


The Holy One who spoke to the mystics through the ages speaks to me and to all of us n the peace and quiet, in our relationships, in the here and now and even in the chaos of our lives with all the stresses and challenges we encounter.


So my prayer is simpler more like attentive listening and flowing with the flow of Spirit whisperings. "Speak, God, I am listening."


What is the Holy One calling you to be or to do? Is there someone who could use a kind word, a phone call or text message expressing encouragement? Could you let go of a worry that is stressing you out? Are you too busy to breathe and relax?


What is God's Message to you? Are you called into deeper oneness with God, compassion and action to help others or promote justice?

If we ask this question, we may find some surprises that will draw us into the heart of love - into the heart of God.


Here are a few ideas below from Ave Maria Press to consider for a new twist on Lent.

Bridget Mary Meehan ARCWP

As we begin this holy season of Lent, let us look for new ways to experience God’s tenderness and love. Explore the following resources and discover how you can grow closer to Christ with some of the most popular Lenten practices:
Make room for God this Lent by learning to declutter.
Feel the presence of God at work in your heart with these popular prayers.
Put a twist to traditional Lenten fasting and focus on the seven deadly sins and their corresponding virtues.
Try this creative meditation on the Passion Flower as a unique approach to the Stations of the Cross.
Learn more about the practice of fasting with this definitive guide.
Find a wonderful treasury of soup recipes for each of the forty days of Lent.
Discover more Lenten resources.