During the week I was asked some very good questions about Lent and what were some significant points they could think about during this time. During our religion lessons in Year 6 this week we looked at the three pillars of Lent: Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving, so here are some ideas for you and your families during this season of Lent. This year the theme for Lent is 100% HOPE so we have discussed some of the ways we can provide HOPE for others in need and pose the question for ourselves:  How can we give HOPE?

Prayer:

• Begin each morning with a prayer such as, ‘Lord, I offer you this day, and all that I think, all I do and say.
• Spend some time in silence or meditation at a time that best suits you.
• Say a prayer of gratitude before family dinner. Even if it means expressing one thing each person is thankful for during their day.
• Keep a journal/jar of your Lent intentions, your progress, people you want to pray for, joys and disappointments.

Fasting: To give up something non-essential or take up doing something extra for others.

• Give up a daily/weekly treat and put the money you would spend on that item into a Project Compassion box.
• Give up Facebook, Instagram etc. and spend your time doing something positive for others.
• For our children, talk to them about taking up an extra job around the home or for a neighbour that will put a smile on someone’s face.

Almsgiving: to reach out to others in need with our time, hands and money.

• Give some of your time to help someone…..spend 10 minutes helping Thu in the tuckshop.
• Time for a wardrobe clean out? Take those clothes you really don’t need any more and donate to a charity.

Thank you and blessings for a great weekend,

Amanda