For the reflection material click HERE

An easy-to-print Marist Laity guide can be found HERE

Begin with Prayer, then read Romans 12:4-6, 9-17

 For as in one body we have many parts, and all the parts do not have the same function, so we, though many,

are one body in Christ and individually parts of one another.  Since we have gifts that differ according to the

grace given to us, let us exercise them…

Let love be sincere; hate what is evil, hold on to what is good; love one another with mutual affection;

anticipate one another in showing honor. Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice

in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality.

Bless those who persecute [you], bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those

who weep. Have the same regard for one another; do not be haughty but associate with the lowly; do not be

wise in your own estimation. Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all.  

 

  • Read the Scripture again to yourself.

  • Notice how you feel, then share a word, phrase, or sense that touches you.

  • Listen to the Reflection or Read the Script.

To listen online, click HERE.

Marist Moment

Your privileges include being able to count on the special protection of Mary, who is so powerful. By permitting her name to become your name, she also wants to see you bear it with honour; she will help you. …Consider therefore, all that you may henceforward expect from the goodness and mercy of Mary, both for yourselves and for all those whom you may recommend to her.

1859 Doc 460, Book of Texts, Ed Keel SM. T.O.M., second edition.

 

Simply use the questions below as starters to guide sharing.

  • What strikes you the most from the reflection and Scripture?

  • What benefits do you receive from regularly sharing with people of faith?

  • Consider the image of fanning a flame. What happens?

  • Share with each other the gift/blessing you receive from them. Name each person’s gifts if you can. [Name person] you inspire me to compassion/hospitality/encouragement/hope/courage/mercy/prayer/action/faith/a balanced perspective etc. etc. when you……..

  • What are some ways you can keep the Marist spirit alive and kindle the flame of faith for others in your group, family, parish? How can we share the fire?

Pray with each other then conclude with this Prayer

God of Holy Fire, thank you for giving us Mary as mother, mentor and guide.

This Lent, renew our openness to the Holy Spirit in Mary’s way. Under Mary’s guidance we pray, come Holy Spirit, enkindle in us the fire of your love, enkindle a spirit of penance for our complacency and mercy for the least and the lost.

Grant us courage to tend the fire of faith and compassion to act generously, sharing our faith and life, especially with those you have given us. May we build one another up in love and share our gifts freely so that together we burn brightly, drawing others to the warming, healing, and empowering fire of Your spirit. St Joseph, pray for us. Mary help of Christians, pray for us.  Amen