2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
A Heart Poured Out with God
The Wilderness Within
In the fifth week of Lent, Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, reflects deeply on our call to be mission, a call that echoes Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. She reminds us that our hearts and lives are created with a profound purpose—to be given away in love. Living this mission fully requires sacrifice, a truth embodied by the heroic example of the Blessed Martyrs of Nowogrodek. Sr. Josephine recounts the story of these eleven Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, who lived in Nowogrodek (modern-day Belarus) during the harrowing days of World War II. As the German occupation brought suffering and terror to the people of their town, the Sisters offered their prayers and lives to protect others. When the Nazis began targeting civilians, including priests and laypeople, the Sisters courageously stepped forward, offering themselves in place of those at risk. Their selfless act led to their arrest and eventual martyrdom on August 1, 1943. These women embodied sacrificial love, laying down their lives to safeguard others and remaining steadfast in their faith. Sr. Josephine challenges us to reflect on their example and ask ourselves: How are we called to live a love that is authentic and always requires sacrifice? Whether through small daily acts of selflessness or life-altering choices, each of us is invited to embrace the mission of love that Jesus demonstrated—a love that gives, protects, and redeems, even in the face of great cost. This Lent, let us pray for the grace to say “yes” to the sacrifices our own vocations may demand, trusting that through them, God’s love will be made manifest in the world.
The Café on the Edge of the World: A Story About the Meaning of Life John Strelecky
…my situation at that moment was symbolic of my life at that time. Just as I was lost on the road, I was lost in life as well—unsure of exactly where I was going or why I was moving in that direction.
- Why are you here?
Have you discerned your PFE? (Purpose for Existing)
- Do you fear death?
Most people do. As each day passes, people intuitively know they’re another day closer to not having a chance to do what they want in life.
- Are you fulfilled?
Despite what we may be taught to believe, are exposed to in advertisements, or feel when we’re stressed out at work, we each control every moment of our lives.
Final Discussions, Clarifications, and Questions
Finis
Holy Week: A Heart United with Christ
During Holy Week, Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, invites us to reflect deeply on the purpose of our Lenten practices—our prayers, fasting, and almsgiving. She reminds us that these penitential acts are not ends in themselves but are meant to sharpen our spiritual vision, helping us see with clarity the profound work of the Lord during this holiest of weeks. Sr. Josephine challenges us to embrace the truth that all of humanity is called into a spousal relationship with Christ—a union marked by love, fidelity, and intimacy. She encourages us to approach Holy Week as if Christ is proposing a spousal relationship with us. Rather than being overly concerned with the details of our Lenten commitments, she urges us to immerse ourselves in the mystery of what Christ is doing for us. This is a time to walk alongside him with the openness and devotion of a spouse, allowing his sacrificial love to transform us. As we journey through these sacred days, may we focus not on our own efforts but on the boundless love and mercy of the Bridegroom [Jesus] who offers his life for his beloved.