The theme for Lent 2019 is inspired by a quote from Pope Francis: 'Living our lives with love.' We are called to live our lives with genuine love - for others and for God.

Our Year 10 students will once again participate in the Caritas challenge during lent.  Peace, Love and Life: Hope and Challenges in South Sudan is this years focus which features stories from South Sudan that highlight the challenges faced by millions of South Sudanese that have encountered ongoing conflict and food insecurity. Ongoing violence and severe food insecurity have left the majority of the population in desperate need of support and assistance. There is hope for a new beginning throughout the country and for love and peace to shine anew.

Caritas South Sudan, the local Caritas agency, with support from Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, is a great example of love as they support the most vulnerable every day – many of whom are displaced and in need of shelter, food, water and a return to peace. Millions have been impacted nationwide by conflict, drought and other forms of injustice. So many of these innocent people show love through their great patience, faith, and even forgiveness. Love is indeed a sacrifice when one is willing to reconcile with those who took from them. Loved ones have been lost, peace has been trodden on, homes have been destroyed and livelihoods stolen. 

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand shows love by supporting those who are on the other side of the world. They may be out of sight, but they are not forgotten. In 2019, they are in the spotlight. Schools and students have the opportunity to live lives with love by joining Caritas as we raise awareness for the country of South Sudan and support the people who are most affected. Let us all live our lives with love this Lent and bring light where there is darkness, hope where there is despair, and peace where there is conflict.

Lent is the Church’s season of repentance; a time to reflect on our relationships with God and with each other. We recall Jesus’ forty days in the desert, being tempted and preparing for his ministry. We take time out during Lent to think about our own lives, and to face those things in our lives and in our world that are not as they should be.