As I reflect on the events that have happened in my life in just the past few week, I find myself wanting to journey through Lent this year with meaning and purpose. I don't think I can be the only one that needs some guidance with that.  

First off, What is Lent?  I found several articles that tell you what Lent is and why we make a big deal of it.  Check out some of these articles:
https://www.usccb.org/prayer-worship/liturgical-year/lent
https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent
https://hallow.com/lent/


Our parish is holding several Lenten events:

• Lenten Mission 2025: https://ascensionbastrop.com/news/lenten-mission-2025-ascension
• Fish Fry Frydays
• We've extended Adoration. Sign up here: https://ascensionbastrop.com/adoration
• Stations of the Cross in English and in Spanish every Friday
• We are hosting a Blood Drive on March 28 from 10am to 2pm. Schedule at weareblood.org/donor  with group code: B793

The following resources are guides that can walk you through lent:

• One of our most referenced site has a wonderful Lent retreat that you can follow: https://sacredspace.com/events/retreat/lent-2025/. The retreat can take as little as 3-5 minutes, or 15-20 minutes, or more, depending on how much time you have, and how deeply you want to enter into prayer.
• This next one is great and it will probably be what I use.  I am a visual, hands on learner and this is perfect for me.  https://watch.formed.org/how-to-lent. I'm sure many of you are aware of our relationship with FORMED.  This video streaming platform is so great for any members of our parish and it's free for them.  Can you believe that?  I hope everyone takes advantage of this wonderful app.  
• For those of you who are into reading physical books in your hand, our friends at Dynamic Catholic have so many great resources including this: https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent.html. I love reading the quotes I receive in their daily inspiration emails. If you need a little more inspiration in your life, you can sign up for daily emails too.