Judy Maden, ENDOW Diocesan Leader, Michigan

Our journey into the Paschal Mystery—contemplating deeply on Christ’s Passion, death, and resurrection—helps us to grow stronger in our conviction of living boldly as disciples for Christ. This is why Lent is my favorite season of the Liturgical year as it offers us time to reflect on our walk of faith and how we have united it with Christ. How have I proclaimed His Word to others through my actions and words? How have I found Christ in the midst of my sufferings? Have I found the face of Jesus forsaken in the suffering of others and given them comfort? How have I boldly stood as a Christian witness to the world and if I have been ‘crucified’ for my beliefs, have I united my experience with Christ so that I too, may rise and grow stronger in my faith? Lent is a time to reflect on my conversion. Am I growing in virtue and holiness? Do I see Christ in the midst of my work and family life? Do I sing praises to the Lord? Do I tell others of His Love and Mercy? How can I be a better disciple, growing in union with the Lord I love so? Lent is a time of conversion and growth, death and dying for it is only through letting go of our old ways—dying to them—that we can rise to new life in Christ on Easter morn!