It is a year since we first saw lockdowns in China and Italy on our TV screens. Back then they looked so strange and otherworldly. I could hardly believe that we would tolerate such a thing here in London. But we have lived in three lockdowns, so far, and people have been absolutely incredible. Kind, resilient, serving and funny. So many have been mindful of the needs of others in a new way.

Many have lost out. Much has been stripped away. But if we could all go back to how life used to be tomorrow, would we want to? 

What would we instantly embrace again? What would we resist getting back into?

Would we go back into the rush and the hurry? 

Would we continue any habits we have learned that have given us peace in this season? 

Would we want to treat our friendships, our health or the planet any differently?

I want to encourage us to use Lent this year, traditionally a time of prayer and reflection, to consider how we might want to go 'back' when that time comes. I am preparing five sessions to run over five weeks in Lent to help us plan how we go forward by looking back together. 

We will do the course on Zoom and you can join in either on a Monday at 9.30am or a Wednesday at 8pm. Each session will last an hour. We will meditate on a theme, using the ancient wisdom of scripture, we will have time to talk in small groups and at the end of each session we will have a chance to create our own personal resolution to help us navigate the demands the future may make of us. The weeks will focus on spirituality, the mind, physicality, relationships, and creation leading to the celebration of resurrection at Easter.

If you are interested in reflecting like this, please fill in this form so that I know to expect you on Zoom. You do not have to be into church to join in, all are welcome on this personal as well as corporate reflective journey through Lent.