Entering the Desert, Guarding the Heart: Preparing Together for Lent

Last February 13-14, participants came together for a Pre-Lenten Retreat with Fr Julian Studden at the FCJ Retreat and Conference Centre, stepping into a space of reflection, renewal, and preparation for the sacred season of Lent. Rooted in Scripture and pastoral wisdom, the retreat invited everyone to enter the “desert”, a place to encounter God, and to reflect on how we live, speak, and open our hearts to grace. 

Day 1 - Entering the Desert 

The retreat began by framing Lent as a “time of grace,” a season not of obligation but of transformation. Reflecting on Jesus’ forty days in the desert, Fr Julian encouraged participants to embrace solitude and simplicity as ways to grow in trust and reliance on God. 

He spoke honestly about the challenges of modern life, constant noise, endless busyness, and the lure of consumerism, and invited everyone to let go of distractions that get in the way of truly encountering God. The desert, he explained, shows both our vulnerabilities and God’s faithfulness, helping us rediscover how little we really need. 

Participants were reminded that spiritual dryness and struggle can be openings to lean more deeply on God, and that Lent is an opportunity to move beyond guilt toward sincere, merciful transformation. 

Key takeaways from Day 1: 

• Lent as a season of grace and renewal. 

• The desert as a place of encounter, healing, and new beginnings. 

• Letting go of distractions and false securities. 

• Embracing prayer, fasting, and simplicity. 

• Trusting God even in times of spiritual dryness or challenge. 

Day 2 - Guarding the Heart Through Our Words 

Building on the first day, Fr Julian invited participants to reflect on how conversion shows up in daily life, especially through the way we speak. He emphasized that our words reveal what’s in our hearts and can either uplift or wound those around us. 

Participants were encouraged to notice habits of speech, avoiding gossip, harsh criticism, or careless words, and to nurture kindness, patience, and attentive listening. Silence was highlighted as a spiritual practice, creating space for God’s voice and deepening our awareness. 

Fr Julian reminded everyone that preparing for Lent means offering every part of our lives to God, allowing the Holy Spirit to purify our hearts so our words reflect Christ’s love. 

Key takeaways from Day 2: 

• Words reveal the condition of our hearts. 

• Seek purification in both speech and intention. 

• Practice listening, humility, and kindness. 

• Use words to encourage, reconcile, and build unity. 

• Create space for God through silence and prayer. 

Prayer, Sacrament, and Time with Christ 

Throughout the retreat, participants were nourished not only by talks but also by shared prayer and silence. The community gathered for Mass, prayed the Stations of the Cross, and spent time in Eucharistic Adoration, quiet moments simply to be with Christ. 

There was also space for personal reflection outdoors. On Saturday, a beautiful day allowed for walks in nature, quiet prayer, and contemplation of God’s creation, a gentle reminder of the peace that comes from slowing down and being fully present with God. 

Carrying the Retreat into Lent 

As the retreat concluded, participants were invited to carry the grace of these days into Lent, with open hearts, renewed awareness, and a commitment to live more intentionally as disciples. The retreat offered a simple but powerful reminder: true preparation for Lent begins within, as we allow God to shape our hearts, guide our words, and lead us toward deeper freedom in Christ. 

Together, these two days offered a profound invitation: step into the desert with courage, guard your heart with care, and trust that God continues to renew and transform all who seek Him.