Dear Assumption Community,
Tomorrow, Wednesday, February 18, we celebrate Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent—a forty-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
Below you will find the Ash distribution schedule as well as several opportunities to lean into the Lenten season in meaningful ways: an on-campus Prayer Service for Human Dignity, a clothing drive to support our neighbors at Abby’s House, and service opportunities through Campus Ministry’s SEND program with the Assumptionist community in El Paso and locally through the 1904 Days of Service.
As we prepare for this sacred season, we invite you to reflect on how you might grow intentionally in prayer, fasting, and generosity. It is a time that calls us to be attentive to our neighbors—friends and strangers alike—who long to be seen and accompanied. Know that you do not walk this journey alone; we enter this season together as a community committed to prayer, service, and solidarity.
PRAYER OPPORTUNITIES
Prayer Service for Human Dignity of Migrants
In line with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops pastoral message on immigration and attentive to ongoing national events, Campus Ministry will be offering a Prayer Service for Human Dignity for Migrants on Monday, February 23rd in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit at 4pm.
We will be praying and holding space for all who are being dehumanized and experiencing violence–especially our migrant brothers and sisters. We will hear from members of the Assumption Community as we lean into the Lenten season, attentive to the call for conversion.
We are looking for members of the AU community to read and participate. Reach out to Luis Melgar if you are interested.
Black Culture and Heritage Ecumenical Worship Service:
a Hope that doesn’t disappoint
Campus Ministry, the Office of Student Success, the Cross Cultural Center and the Office of Student Affairs is excited to offer the annual Black Culture and Heritage Ecumenical Worship Service on February 25 at 8pm in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Conway Campbell, Sr. (VP for Student Success) will be presiding, joined by members of the Kuumba Singers of Harvard College and the Assumption University Chorale.
There will be a reception following the service in Tinsley featuring various ethnic foods. You won’t want to miss this!
A Gallery of Encounters with Jesus
Join Sr. Nuala Cotter, R.A., on March 5 and March 12 at 7:30pm for a Lenten gallery walk! Come to one or come to both.
If you’re interested, please register for the link by emailing raworcester@hotmail.com. We hope to see you then!
For more information, contact Una Murphy (uo.murphy@assumption.edu)
If you have any questions or need help signing up, please contact Una Murphy (uo.murphy@assumption.edu).
Members of the Campus Ministry team and Assumption students come across an Assumption alumni and graduate student while serving at the first 1904 Day of service at the Nativity School of Worcester.
Mustard Seed Catholic Worker
Join the Mustard Seed, a local volunteer community that provides dinner to individuals in Worcester each weekday. If you’re interested in volunteering with them, you can visit their website.
FASTING AT ASSUMPTION
Aramark will be supporting students who are fasting this Lent, and this sign will be displayed outside of Taylor (Tay’s) dining hall throughout the next 40 days!
While fasting is often associated with food, it can take many forms. Students may choose to fast from digital media, certain habits, or other distractions in order to grow in their faith.
Be on the lookout for weekly fasting opportunities on Campus Ministry’s social media, and visit the National Catholic Reporter for additional ideas and reflections.
