The Lenten season is a period of 40 days and 40 nights, leading up to Easter. It’s a time of spiritual reflection, growth and renewal for Christians around the world. This year’s Lenten resource, “Living into God’s Dream” written by the Rev’d Jonathan Rowe, offers a unique journey through the intersection of faith, justice and mercy, weaving together the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 and the Anglican Communion’s Five Marks of Mission. This resource invites readers to consider their contributions to a more just and sustainable world and deepen understanding of God’s dream for humankind.
Jonathan Rowe is an Anglican priest with 21 years of service to the Church in the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. A leader in discipleship, mission and digital ministry, Rowe supported teamwork and collaboration among parishes as a former Mission Dean. He led a Discipleship and Ministry program, equipping Anglicans across the province to explore and better articulate their faith.
Living into God’s Dream is designed to help readers develop a deeper and more meaningful observance of the Lenten season. Each daily reflection includes a Scripture passage, a reflective essay, three questions for further reflection and self-examination, and a prayer. This format provides a structure for readers to engage more deeply with the Lenten themes and scriptures through self-reflection. Readers are invited to subscribe to receive a free daily message in their email inbox.
The resource explores various key themes that pertain to the Lenten season, with emphasis on current events, including temptation, renewal, transformation, simplicity and integrity. By emphasizing reflection, self-examination and prayer, the guide promotes personal spiritual growth and development. As readers work through the reflections, they’ll be encouraged to reassess their lives, let go of distractions of their daily busy life, and focus on spiritual growth. Ultimately, the guide invites readers to create simplicity and integrity through a deeper connection with God, leading to practical applications and transformative insights in their daily lives.
“I believe that faith should lead to action, and there’s no better time than Lent to connect our spiritual practices with the needs of the world around us,” says Rowe. “This resource is designed to help people of all backgrounds deepen their faith by reflecting on the challenges of our time and responding through prayer and concrete acts of compassion. It’s my hope that these reflections will not only guide individuals on their Lenten journey but also inspire them to bring God’s Dream for the world closer to reality.”
Living into God’s Dream is a valuable companion for the season, providing a thoughtful guide to help readers deepen their understanding of Lenten themes. Through reflective questions and prayers, readers are encouraged to examine their lives and priorities, leading to greater self-awareness.
Where to find it:
Explore the journey of resilience this Lenten season with Alongside Hope.
Learn more and subscribe at: pwrdf.org/AlongsideHopeLent2025.
