Finding Strength in Reflection:
The Fifth Week of Lent

As the Anglican Church progresses through Lent, we find ourselves in the fifth week of this sacred season. Lent, a period of forty days dedicated to fasting, prayer, and repentance, draws us closer to the essence of our faith, preparing us for the celebration of Easter.

This week, the journey intensifies. The initial fervor of Ash Wednesday may have waned, and the disciplines of fasting and self-denial may feel more challenging. However, it is precisely during this time that our perseverance is vital.

The readings and liturgies of the fifth week prompt deep contemplation. Themes of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption permeate the scriptures, urging us to confront our shortcomings and seek reconciliation with God and others.

The story of Jesus’ encounter with the woman caught in adultery serves as a poignant reminder of God’s boundless mercy and our call to extend forgiveness and compassion to others, even in their failings.

In addition to personal reflection, this week invites acts of service and charity. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply offering kindness, these acts align with the Lenten spirit, deepening our understanding of Christ’s love.

As we journey through the fifth week of Lent, let us embrace the opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal. Let us recommit ourselves to lives of faith, love, and service, knowing that Easter joy awaits us. And may we carry the lessons learned during this season of reflection with us throughout the year, striving to live as faithful disciples of Christ.

 

Our FaithWorks Campaign

Our Stewardship Focus this month is on FaithWorks-a program of the Diocese of Toronto that supports non-profit groups in offering help and hope to those in need. You could think of FaithWorks as the “outreach” arm of the Diocese of Toronto.

Since 1996 Faithworks Ministry Partners collaborated with local partners around the globe-and in remote communities in Canada’s North-to provide international aid and relief efforts to address root causes of poverty and injustice. The Church of the Nativity, Malvern are proud to participate in Faithworks during Lent. Your gift helps to build healthy and sustainable families and communities…

• Giving with grace (formerly Anglican Appeal)
• Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund

Faithworks also support spiritual care to the terminally ill:

• Philip Aziz Centre provides home-based hospice and spiritual care in the GTA, as well as respite care and bereavement support for people caring for loved ones with a life-limiting illness.

Consider supporting our FaithWorks campaign this Lenten season at the church.

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