YOUNG ADULTS & YOUNG FAMILIES
Coordinator: Josh Houde
joshua.houde@portlanddiocese.org
 
God is able to draw good from every circumstance and it is worthwhile to reflect on the blessings that can emerge from this trying situation. Simply reflecting and acting on these can help us to live in hope:
 
Be Not Afraid Conference - A free, online conference providing inspiration and encouragement in this present challenge. Featuring presenters such as Jackie Francois Angel, Fr Rob Galea, Leah Darrow, Sister Miriam James Heidland, and more!

Lenten Retreat--"Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). We're in Lent and this is an incredible opportunity to enter into a spirit of retreat from the busyness that so often consumes us and focus on what is most important. Let's take advantage of it. Some ideas:

• Spend quality time with your family or housemates. Enjoy carefree timelessness with those closest to you that you are able to be in contact with.
• Call friends or family that you haven't contacted in a while, including your grandparents or others you may not be able to visit in person at this time.
• Be extra mindful of the needs of others and do something concrete for them.
• Read a book you've been meaning to read.
• Dedicate time to prayer.
• Tidy up around the house.
• Spend time in nature.
• Dive into your exercise regimen.
• Re-calibrate your life goals and priorities: What matters most? And what matters least?

 
Virtue of Hope--"Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." Our secular world does not often reflect on our mortality. Scripture, on the other hand, urges us to live mindful of our mortality and face death with hope. We who follow Christ need not fear death. "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Cor 15:55). Regardless of our age, this is a great moment to pray for greater awareness of our mortality and our living hope in the reality of eternal life.
 
Appreciation of Our Blessings--We realize what we take for granted when it is taken from us. As we live this Lent stripped of many of the conveniences and blessings we are accustomed to, may we develop a greater appreciation for them so that we truly rejoice when we receive them back.
 
Specific Prayer Ideas

• Rosary
• Chaplet of Mercy
• Mass readings and other prayers via the Magnificat website or app (web version currently FREE as a service to those who are unable to attend Mass right now)