Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of our Lenten journey. During the next 40 days, we are called to accompany Jesus on his journey to Calvary. In His immense suffering, Jesus continued to show mercy and forgiveness to those who had sentenced him to death. This powerful moment highlights the importance of both asking for God’s mercy and showing mercy to others. As we reflect on our lives during this Lenten season, let us consider the things in which we ask God for mercy, and recall moments in which we have not shown mercy to others.
Fasting, almsgiving and prayer are the cornerstones of Lent. Jesus tells us they should not be done merely for personal gain or status. Rather, when we take the time to pray, fast and give to others, it should be done in consideration of the good of others and in honouring God.
The ashes are a reminder of the Lenten promises we will make in our own lives, and to encourage us to give ourselves to others, just as Jesus did for us.
This significant time in the liturgical season asks us to reflect on the needs of our brothers and sisters and be thankful to God for our many blessings. We are reminded of those who do not have access to the basic needs of human life and to consider ways in which we can act to best serve them. Now more than ever, all communities, most especially vulnerable ones, are struggling from the continuing impacts of the global pandemic.
As we prepare for Easter, we must stand in solidarity as a global family, challenging ourselves to live and act with love and hope, now and for all future generations.
During our Ash Wednesday Liturgy, the following Year 12 students and staff were commissioned as Special Ministers of Holy Communion.
Taryn Barnes
Emily Berson
Lily Blaire
Zoe Bolden
Sarah Currell
Alice Handcock
Sophie Fowler
Sophie Hilder
April Lea
Sienna Monck
Tennille O’Connor
Giselle Paganoni
Eloise Parsons
Jessica Pereira
Sienna Romeri
Eleanor Rouphael
Kate Scott
Abbey Simkin
Niamh Smithies
Olivia Taliangis
Elena Taranto
Isabella Tinley
Alicia Tory
Eliza Treasure
Abbey Winship
Lauren Winship
Chloe Williams
Abby Young
Staff Â
Tania Merrey
Marie Sadler
God of hope and compassion, you remind us of the need to turn away from our own desires, and to care for our global family, particularly at a time that has seen great loss and suffering.
We pray that during this time of Lent, we may grow in understanding of the challenges faced by those who are marginalised and vulnerable in our world as we make a home for them in our hearts.
And as we see the challenges of others, may we respond with love and hope, now and for all future generations. Be with us as we walk in solidarity with our brothers and sisters.
We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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