About this Resource:
“ Lent is a favorable season for opening the doors to all those in need and recognizing in them the face of Christ. Each of us meets people like this every day. Each life that we encounter is a gift deserving acceptance, respect and love. The word of God helps us to open our eyes to welcome and love life, especially when it is weak and vulnerable.”- Pope Francis, 2017 message for Lent
Every year nearly 20,000 inidividuals engage in full-time, faith-based service. They are working with poor and vulnerable communities across the United States and in over 100 different countries abroad. Though their work as educators, ministers, health care providers, counselors, community organizers, and much more, these volunteers are able to make a positive impact on the communities they serve. In addition to this important work, volunteer also commit to living in intentional community with one another, maintaining a simple lifestyle, digging deep into matters of social justice, and seeking a closer relationship with God through prayer and reflection.
In this Lenten Reflection Guide, we have compiled reflections, prayers, and service suggestions based on each Sunday’ s Gospel reading. These reflections are written by current and former volunteers, each offering their unique insights and experiences. Some will provide you with thought-provoking ideas for reflection, while others share practical suggestions of how you can apply the virtues of the faith-based service to your Lenten observance.
We are thankful for the opportunity to accompany you during this holy time. May God speak to you through these reflections over the next forty days!
About us:
The Catholic Apostolate Center, a ministry of the Society of the Catholic Apostolate( Pallottines)- Immaculate Conception Province, was founded in 2011 to respond to the needs of the Church through: Developing, in collaboration with dioceses and other institutions and organizations, formation programs for the New Evangelization; Assisting Catholic leaders in deepening collaboration with one another; Providing formation and apostolic opportunities for members and collaborators of the Union of Catholic Apostolate. The Center takes its inspiration from the spirituality of St. Vincent Pallotti and achieves its goals through hosting conferences, seminars, webinars, and presentations as well as providing online and print resources. For more information visit: www. catholicapostolatecenter. org
Catholic Volunteer Network is a national membership organization of Christian volunteer and mission programs that fosters and promotes full-time national and international service opportunities for people of all backgrounds, ages and skills. Catholic Volunteer Network supports and enhances the work of its membership by providing training and resources, networking opportunities, and national advocacy. For more information visit: www. catholicvolunteernetwork. org