Fasting is a way of showing self-discipline and of focusing on our relationship with God. Fasting can also be a way of expressing solidarity with those who are less fortunate. Fasting is an important part of Lent, as it allows us to follow the example of Jesus in the desert, and to grow in our compassion for others.
You don’t have to give up something huge. Maybe try doing less of something. Less time on social media or less time playing Fortnite.
Day 1 – Start with scripture
We invite you to start with the Sign of the Cross.
Read this Gospel passage.
A Reading from the Holy Gospel According to Luke
R. Glory to You O Lord
At that time: Jesus took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah’ — not knowing what he said. As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!’
9:28-36
The Gospel of the Lord
R. Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ
Spend some time in pairs or threes and talk about the questions below. When you’re finished, share them with the whole form and see where the dialogue takes you.
Discussion Questions:
After the amazing things they had just seen, why did Peter want to setup tents?
“A cloud came and overshadowed them”. Have you heard that phrase before? Where?
Click below to “Add Comment” and capture some of what has been said in your form for others to see.
God of radiant glory,
We thank you for the Transfiguration of Jesus. On that mountain, you revealed his divine splendor, a glimpse of the heavenly kingdom. Help us, like Peter, James, and John, to see beyond the earthly and recognize Jesus as your beloved Son. May this vision strengthen our faith and remind us that even in our darkest moments, your light will always shine. Amen.
St Peter and St Paul…
Pray for us.
Amen
Day 2 – Prayer in Lent
We invite you to start with the Sign of the Cross.
Sometimes just trying to pray can be difficult. How do I start? Do I need to ask for something? What happens if I get it wrong?
Don’t worry, there isn’t a wrong way to pray. Even when you don’t know what to or how to pray, the fact that you want to is enough of a place to start. If you need a bit more structure or an easy guide, try TACOS.
God our Father,
It’s hard to pray sometime, and we don’t know what we’re doing. Please give us the grace to turn our hearts to you. Give us the wisdom to know that by asking you for help to pray, we are already praying.
Amen.
St Peter and St Paul…
Pray for us.
Amen
Day 3 – Access to our hearts
Wednesday is the Solemnity of St Joseph (Patron of our main building). Nothing is known of St Joseph except what is said of him in the Gospels. He was a carpenter; he accepted God’s will; he supported Mary and brought up Jesus. From the human character of his son we can see that he was a good and responsible father. He is widely venerated as a patron of artisans who honorably do good work with the gifts God has given them, and of workers in general. To those who exercise the role of an adoptive parent, whether formally or informally, whether over one child or as the support of a whole family, he is a source of inspiration. See the articles in the Catholic Encyclopaedia
We invite you to start with the Sign of the Cross.
Why are we fasting? Why are you fasting? Is it to take up a good habit or drop a bad one? Is it just about something you want, or is there more to it.
Father Mike helps us understand that it’s about access.
So there it is. Lent is about being sorry but if it’s not directed at the Father, directed at the God who loves us and notices, why are we doing it? By giving God access to our hearts we can use this time to let God change us. That’s how much He loves you; He needs your permission to act in your life Just a reminders that the daily readings are always available in the Chapel. During Lent Chaplain Andrew will be there at lunchtime (Wednesday and Friday). Or why not come to the Prayer club at Thursday lunchtime (Maths2).
Lord God,
We give you permission. We invite you into our lives. We ask for your grace and blessing. Help us to give you a little more access to our hearts so that your holy will can act through us.
We make our prayer through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son. Amen.
St Peter and St Paul…
Pray for us.
Amen
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