Maris Stella School Penitential Services for Lent

by Admin · March 25, 2023

Maris Stella School in Berea, Durban held their junior and senior penitential services for the Lenten season led by school chaplain Fr David Houbert.

Grade 7 – 12 pupils’ penitential service had the theme Accepting our Cross: “Just as Jesus accepted the Cross on which He was crucified, so too, are we called to accept the cross that we carry in our own lives. To carry our cross means to fully put our trust in God amid the storms and battles. Jesus took up the cross out of obedience to His Father; humbly and gladly putting God’s will and His love for God’s people above Himself. We are called to do likewise with every difficulty or suffering that we experience.” If anyone wants to come with me, you must forget yourself, take up your cross every day, and follow me. Mark 8: 34

Grade 3 – 6 pupils focused on the story of the paralytic who was let down through the roof by his friends, where Jesus cured him, for their penitential service. Pupils reflected on the times they have been sick and their attitude towards those who helped them. Pupils also contemplated how they have behaved towards friends and loved ones during the term and asked God to forgive them for the times that they have failed.

Each pupil received a special prayer to decorate and take home to remind them of this “New Life” that Jesus gives us. Your sins are forgiven. Get up and walk. Mark 2: 9