Lent – A Season of Reflection, Renewal, and Mercy in Action

March 28, 2025

Lent is a powerful opportunity for reflection, renewal, and deepening our sense of compassion and service. It’s a time to press pause, look inward, and ask, how can I be a better person for myself and my community?

For students, families, and staff alike, Lent serves as a reminder of our Mercy values of Hospitality, Compassion, Justice, Service, and Excellence, and is a time to put them into practice in meaningful ways.

Why 40 Days? A Journey with Purpose

Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 days, mirrors Jesus’ time in the desert, a period of prayer, fasting, and preparation. But it’s not just about giving something up (although saying goodbye to chocolate can be tough!). It’s about making space for gratitude, generosity, and growth.

This period calls us to embrace three core practices:

Prayer – Taking time to reflect, express gratitude, and strengthen our faith. “Lent gives me the opportunity to reflect upon my relationship with God through prayer and reflection,” shares Annabel, Ministry Captain. “It reminds me that sin separates us from God and calls me to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and teachings.”
Fasting – Not just from food, but from habits that distract us from what truly matters.
Almsgiving – Extending kindness and generosity to those in need. “Almsgiving encourages me to reflect on the importance of selflessness,” says Carissa, Service Captain. “Even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.”

Lent in Action

Lent is a time for action. Here’s how our students are bringing the spirit of Lent to life:

Acts of Service: Through the Service-Learning Program, students dedicate time to helping others throughout the year. Lent is a chance to reflect on the impact of their service and find new ways to show kindness, whether by supporting local charities or simply being there for someone in need.
Mindful Giving: Whether it’s giving time to a friend who needs support or fundraising for Project Compassion, our students are discovering that generosity comes in many forms.
Reflecting on Lent and Holy Week: Through Religious Education classes, students are deepening their understanding of Lent and Holy Week. Year 7 students have been bringing this reflection to life by creating their own Lenten calendars and exploring ways to live out faith and kindness each day.

What Can You Do this Lent?

Lent is different for everyone. Some may choose to give up distractions, like spending less time on social media, making way for more real conversations. Others may commit to daily kindness, small acts that brighten someone’s day.

Want to get involved? Here are some simple ways:

Walking Together in Faith

Lent isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. Whether through prayer, service, or self-reflection, this season offers an invitation to grow and walk together in faith.

As a community, let’s embrace this journey and continue to live out our Mercy values, supporting one another, making a difference, and strengthening our connection to faith.

How will you make Lent meaningful this year? Reflect, take action, and be part of something bigger.

Join us in our Project Compassion initiative. Click here to donate and make a difference today.

Almsgiving, Faith, Fasting, Featured, Lent, Mercy Values, Prayer, Reflection, Service

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.