Archives for Articles

A New Type of Martyrdom

Friday 16 March 2012

The Catholic Church in these isles has been marked by its historic struggle for survival. Every meal time at Allen Hall I am drawn to the list of martyrs from the Reformation period. I am appalled at the loss and also impressed by their incredible faith. The feelings of suspicion towards Roman Catholics endure in […]

Reflections on Rome

Saturday 3 March 2012

As the time drew near to making the pilgrimage to Rome I was aware of not only a greater sense of anticipation but a deepening sense of significance. On arriving in Rome and walking a clerical kilometre (ask my fellow pilgrims about that), we paused just before crossing the Ponto Emanuele. The heart of the […]

Meditation from Lent Group 1.

Saturday 3 March 2012

Here is one of the meditations for adults using the Lent materials. You may want to read the reflection on temptation from week 1 of ‘Communion with Christ’ Sit so you are comfortable and alert. Take time to come to stillness. Take some deep breaths and as you do so become aware that God is with […]

Jesus in the Wilderness.

Saturday 25 February 2012

Yesterday we had our first Lent group (report to follow) Here is the version of ‘Jesus being tempted in the Wilderness’ I wrote for one activity. The Spirit called Jesus out into the wilderness. Time alone with his Father. The Tempter saw an opportunity and took it. “Are you sure you are the Son of […]

Here comes Mrs Irritable.

Friday 24 February 2012

On Ash Wednesday my forehead was itchy due to the ashes, irritating, reminding me it was Lent. I have been irritable for days, feeling the coming change of season. I always find Lent hard. Fasting finds out all my weaknesses and I am not overly keen on the journey to the Cross. This year, however, […]

Walking through the desert: Lent as a family 2

Saturday 18 February 2012

There are real contrasts in the story of Lent and Easter. Using these themes or images can help children see some of the meaning in the stories. You might simply point out the images when reading the Bible or you might use pictures or activities to deepen this aspect of Lent. You might want to […]