30/05/2025
Lenten Family Day 2025 – A Joyful Gathering in Pantasaph
Continuing the tradition of Advent Family Days, this year brought a fresh and spiritually enriching event: the Lenten Family Day, held on 12th April 2025 in the peaceful grounds of the former Franciscan Friary in Pantasaph. Now cared for by the Vincentian Fathers—a religious congregation from Kerala, India, entrusted by Bishop Peter—the site includes St David’s Parish, a Retreat Centre, and hosts major events like St Padre Pio’s Day.
Thanks to the generous hospitality of the Vincentian Fathers, the Pilgrim’s Hall was made available to the Marriage and Family Life Commission, led by new Diocesan Coordinator Wioletta Trebska. The day proved a great success, drawing around 40 participants ranging in age from just 3 months to over 80 years.
The weather was kind enough to allow craft activities to take place outdoors. Children eagerly joined in to decorate biscuits with edible paints, create Paschal lambs from cotton wool, and make Easter palms. These creative activities were facilitated by the Commission's dedicated volunteers, who are now looking to expand their team.
The beautifully crafted palms were blessed by Bishop Peter before being carried in a joyful, sung procession up to Calvary Hill and the St Padre Pio National Shrine. This Calvary Way is a truly unique spiritual landmark—the only one in the UK built on a hill with a Cross at the summit and a sepulchre below marking the final Station of the Cross.
During the walk, Bishop Peter provided thoughtful and accessible reflections at each of the 14 Stations, helping the younger participants engage with the story of Christ’s Passion. With handouts provided beforehand, many children took active roles by carrying the cross and candles. Even those with prams or walking aids completed the pilgrimage, making it a truly inclusive event.
As Taizé chants echoed through the grounds, a shared spirit of contemplation and unity uplifted the group. The journey concluded with a blessing from Bishop Peter, followed by the distribution of stickers for the children. Back at the hall, everyone enjoyed delicious hot dogs generously served by the Knights of St Columba.
This Lenten Family Day was beautifully organised and deeply appreciated by all who attended. Many left feeling spiritually renewed and full of joy. Let us pray that more such events continue to flourish in our Diocese, bringing families together in faith and fellowship.