Instead of giving up vices or attending weekly Mass, students can do more for Lent.
Shannon Smith, director of Campus Ministry retreats, said the purpose of Lent is to focus on solidarity and the less fortunate. These programs can help students focus on the meaning of Lent.
“There are different organizations that are trying to connect eco-spirituality with just some Lenten practices,” Smith said. “It’s an alternate than giving up chocolate or Facebook.
“Being aware of conservation and the environment. That’s one thing we are encouraging people to do as well.”
“I think it’s important for students to be in solidarity. Giving something up for Lent isn’t about depriving ourselves, it’s to be in solidarity with those who do not have. It’s a reminder to pray and be in solidarity.”
Here’s a list of things students can do for Lent:
Prayer and Reflection
In addition to daily Mass and weekend liturgies, students come together to pray, reflect and celebrate faith.
Vespers are prayed Sundays at 6 p.m. and Tuesdays at 9 p.m. in St. John’s Church.
Holy Hour with Eucharistic Adoration is on Mondays at 9 p.m. in St. John’s Church.
Hand-in-Hand 2010
Creighton welcomes 50 Omaha-area adults with developmental disabilities for food and time together on March 28 from 1:30-4 p.m. in Lower St. John’s.
Seventy Creighton student volunteers are needed to serve as partners: two-to-one companions for those in attendance.
To apply, fill out the application form on the Campus Ministry Web site.
“Finding God in All Things:
A Lenten Retreat Series”
Creighton students of all faiths can attend a four-session retreat that focuses on key moments in the life and times of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
This is held on Sundays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Campus Ministry office in lower Swanson Hall.
Lenten “Carbon Fast”
Students can see the calendar for the Lenten Carbon Fast 2010 that gives suggested practices and disciplines to reduce carbon usage at the Campus Ministry Web site.
For more information on any of these events, go to Campus Ministry’s Web site at: http://www.creighton.edu/ministry/campusministry.