Lent 2026
LENT 2026 – The Journey continues …
In recent times there has been a lot of emphasis in the media on life as a journey.
TV programmes have focussed on the idea of pilgrimage – celebs and real people alike.
The Christian Year is intended to be a journey through our faith – the promise of Advent, the arrival of Jesus, His temptation in the desert, His Ministry round the towns and villages, His road to the Cross, His death and burial, His Resurrection and Ascension. Each ‘season’ brings out a different part of the story, emphasises another aspect of Jesus’ impact on His followers and the wider world. Lent is no exception.
LENT is a season for personal journeys for Well-being & Health & Faith.
Having emptied our cupboards in the excess of Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras) we are challenged to survive on simple foods during the lean months of the year. Not easy.
As we toss our pancakes as a nod to the empty cupboards of the past, it is easy to forget that Lent is about our whole being: Body, Mind & Soul.
This is where it can teach us a lot as we journey through life.
Our life is not just about the physical, but also our mental health and spiritual growth.
A lot of you have tried the physical regimes offered to help remove the extra weight, tone the muscles, improve fitness, and be ready for the beach!
Some of you have delved into the strategies of mindfulness and the increased awareness of your feelings and reactions to help cope with all that life hurls at you.
How many of us also pay attention to the spiritual side of our being? The inner part of our nature which, I believe, is designed to ‘tune in’ to things beyond these three dimensions, with their limitations and frustrations.
For thousands of years people have used pilgrimage to physically echo the inner journey, seeking discipline, clarity, renewal, and faith as the earthly journey is made in the hope that the return to ‘normality’ will be enriched in all aspects – Body, Mind & Soul.
LENT is a season of reflection, resolution and re-assessment for Mind & Body & Soul
… a journey of mindfulness, carefulness, thoughtfulness;
… a journey of growth, development, resilience;
… a journey characterised by an openness, physically, mentally and spiritually;
… an individual journey often accompanied by others on their own journey.
LENT is a season requiring determination and discipline
As John Bunyan (1628-1688, PILGRIM’S PROGRESS) put it:
“…there’s no discouragement shall make [me] once relent,
[my] first avowed intent to be a pilgrim…
… I’ll fear not what men say, I’ll labour night and day to be a pilgrim.”
Are you up for it?
LENT is a season of seeking … together.
Come alongside us as you make your own journey …
Thursdays at 7.30pm …
26th Feb People on Pilgrimage in St Ninian’s Church
5th Mar Identity: “Who are you?” in Dunscore Church
12th Mar Desire: “What are you looking for?” in Dunscore Church
19th Mar Home: “Where are you staying?” in Dunscore Church
26th Mar Glory: Meeting God in Dunscore Church
LENT resources …
Book for Study Meeting God in John
Book of daily reflections for personal use From Ash to Alleluia!
Online reflections 2026 Lent : Preaching Creation Crucified (EcoCongregation Scotland)
… for help on your journey.
