This past Lent, parishioners across the Diocese accepted a simple invitation—to gather in small groups and pray with the Compassio Lenten programme from the Diocese of Wollongong. This became a shared journey of faith, reflection, and deep encounter.

With just 180 booklets available in our diocese, Compassio found its way into 13 parishes, from Raglan to Gisborne, Huntly to Rotorua. In churches, living rooms, and even the Chanel Centre at the diocesan offices, small groups formed—some weekly, others fortnightly—each entering into the spirit of compassio (to “suffer with,”) walking closely with Christ and with one another.

Transformation:

“It’s more than a book—it became a companion on the journey.”

Participants consistently spoke of the richness of the resource. With daily reflections, Gospel meditations, spiritual direction, and group questions, Compassio offered a rhythm for Lent that was both accessible and deeply challenging.

A beautiful invitation:
“It’s so beautiful—it just invites you in. It almost screams beauty.”

The inclusion of sacred art, paired with contemplative visio divina, opened new ways of encountering Scripture.
“The artwork deepened my understanding of the readings—it brought the Gospel to life in a new way.”

Powerful reflections:
“The messages were simple yet deep—perfect to carry with me each day.”

Across the Diocese, people engaged in different ways. Some gathered faithfully in small groups, sharing insights and growing together. Others, due to circumstance or health, journeyed individually—but still experienced a profound sense of connection.

“Even on my own, I felt so united with the Church.”

Personal prayer and communal sharing:
“There was so much to draw from—individually and together. It gave us language for deeper conversations.”

Catholic and Orthodox couples share together:
“Wonderful, easy to follow, and deeply thought-provoking.”

Again and again, a common theme emerged: Compassio helped people slow down, reflect intentionally, and enter more fully into the Lenten journey.

“It helped form good habits—intentional reading, reflection, and preparation for Sunday.”

Renewed encounter with the Gospel:
“We came to Sunday more awake—to the Word, to Christ, to each other.”

Perhaps most striking was the sense of companionship—both with Christ and with others.

“It gave companionship to Christ’s journey—and reminded us we are not alone.”

Whether meeting in groups or praying at home, participants spoke of a shared pilgrimage. A sense that, across parishes and communities, others were walking the same road.

“We are companions on the journey.”

There were also signs that the impact of Compassio extended beyond Lent itself. Participants spoke of lasting change, ongoing growth, and a desire for more opportunities like this.

“It has changed me—and the growth is continuing.”

“We would definitely do this again.”

As the Diocese reflects on this first experience of sharing Compassio, there is a quiet sense of gratitude—and anticipation. What might it look like to continue offering spaces like this? To keep gathering, reflecting, and growing together? With gratitude to the many participants who generously made a donation towards the cost of this initiative, we are excited to be able to look toward making this a regular feature in the rhythm of prayer in our diocese.

Because if Lent revealed anything, it is this: when people are invited into prayer, given beautiful and thoughtful resources, and encouraged to journey together—hearts are opened, faith is deepened, and the Church is strengthened.

“Let’s journey together.”