Lent
with St Barnabas & St Katharine's Matson
As we journey into Lent, we are invited to sow seeds of hope, nurture our trust in God, and grow deeper in faith. This year, the Church of England’s Lent theme is Living Hope, reminding us that even in life’s struggles and uncertainties, God is present, working to bring renewal and transformation.
Lent is often seen as a time of giving things up, but it is also a season of taking things up—of making space to draw nearer to God. As we walk with Jesus along the difficult and thorny road to the cross, we are encouraged to sow hope by grounding ourselves in His promises, nurture our faith through prayer, reflection, and community, and grow as we see God at work in our lives and the world.
We all experience seasons of challenge, disappointment, and waiting. Yet in these moments, God invites us to bring our whole selves before Him, trusting that He is with us, shaping and restoring us. Lent is a time to recognise that even in suffering, we can hold onto hope—a hope that does not fail because it is rooted in the love of Christ.
What's on
Check out all of the ways you can connect this Lent. Small groups can be a huge source of support and encouragement and an opportunity to meet with friends, old and new.
Wednesday 5th March | Ash Wednesday | 10am | St Barnabas Church
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a time to reflect on our lives and our relationship with God. We have the opportunity to receive a cross of ashes, reminding us that life is fragile, but God’s love and mercy are everlasting. A chance to gather for a cuppa and hot cross buns afterwards to encourage one another as Lent begins.
Wednesday 5th March | Ash Wednesday | 6.30pm | St Katharine's Matson
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, a time to reflect on our lives and our relationship with God. We have the opportunity to receive a cross of ashes, reminding us that life is fragile, but God’s love and mercy are everlasting.
Thursday 6th March | Lent Group 1 "The Holy Spirit and the Church" | 2:15pm | Linden
Come and explore how the Holy Spirit moves in our lives and in the Church this Lent. We will reflect, pray, and grow together in faith. Contact the office on office@stbg.uk for more details and location. Runs weekly throughout Lent
Friday 7th March | Lent Group 2 "Be still" | 9am | Online
Goes live at 09:00 each week but catch up anytime. Explore the simple, transformative practice of a daily quiet time with God
https://www.facebook.com/groups/641548631934165 Runs weekly throughout Lent.
Friday 7th March | Lent Group 3 "Shapes for Living" | 7pm | Linden
Lent gives us the opportunity to consider our lifestyle and whether it is time to make some changes!
Starts at 19:00 running weekly. Contact the office on office@stbg.uk for more details and location. Runs weekly throughout Lent
Wednesday 19th March | Lent Lunch Group 4 "Women of Holy Week" | 11am at St Barnabas, Stroud Road
Journey through Lent with the women who witnessed Jesus’ final days. Through Scripture, reflection, and discussion, we’ll explore their stories, their faith, and what they reveal about our own discipleship.
Lent Lunch (Pay as you can) soup and a roll in St Barnabas church
Community Events
Sunday 2nd March | Community Lunch | 12:00pm | St Barnabas Church Halls
Bring and share lunch. All very welcome.
Tuesday 4th March | Shrove Tuesday Pancakes | 6.30pm | English Martyrs RC Church, Tuffley Lane
The Church in Tuffley presents a (free) fun family social evening Pancakes and puddings provided – bring your own pancake filling if you like! Tea, Coffee and Soft Drinks provided. in English Martyrs Church Parish Hall
247 Tuffley Lane, GL4 0NX
Sunday 30th March | Mothering Sunday | 10:30 | St Barnabas Church
Bring someone who you love who looks after you to share in some Mothering Sunday celebrations and treats as we say a huge thank you to those who love us. We will also remember loved ones we see no longer.