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Lenten Programmes

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Lenten Programmes

We invite you to explore our Lenten programs below and join us in this sacred journey of prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth in this Jubilee Year.


 

Ash Wednesday Mass Times

Available Masses

⏰ 9:00 AM – OLV | St. Bernadette’s | St. Teresa’s

⏰ 12:05 PM – St. Teresa’s

⏰ 5:30 PM – St. Teresa’s |OLV

⏰ 7:00 PM – OLV


 

Praying for victims of Abuse & Violence

Each year, on the Friday after Ash Wednesday, the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference (NZCBC) calls us to observe a Day of Prayer & Penance for the Victims of Abuse and Violence.


As Christians, we recognise that prayer, conversion, and justice are essential to the healing process. As a faith community, we come before God, seeking forgiveness for the harm that has been done. Our bishops invite us to reflect on the suffering endured by victims and to acknowledge the horrors of abuse and violence within Catholic settings.


Together, we pray for healing, justice, and renewed commitment to safeguarding all.



 

The Way of the Cross

Will be prayed weekly beginning Friday 7 March after the

5.30pm Mass at Our Lady of Victories.


(Please note no confessions during stations).


 

Men’s Lenten Programme – Exodus 40

Brothers, do you have a hole in your heart you cannot satisfy?Are you isolated? Are you frequently distracted? Do you want more time in your life for reflection? Do you feel you’re not present enough for your loved ones? Are you approaching this Lent with no plan or unsure of what to “give up”?


Join us this Lent for Exodus 40 for Men!

These structured challenges provide a path to gaining true Christian freedom from the things that shackle us, based on three key pillars: prayer, brotherhood, and physical disciplines. These challenges are designed to make your Lenten journey with our Lord more fruitful and deliberate.


How to Join

Register your interest online on the diocesan website or contact Mike Stopforth at mstopforth@cdoc.nz or 366 9869.


Upcoming Events

📌 Exodus “Tips and Tricks” Night

Thursday, 27th February,

7:30 PM


📍 Assisi Lounge, St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral

Hear from men who have completed Exodus in previous years and gain insights on how to make the most of this journey.


Parish Involvement

Men participating in Exodus 40 are invited to join a Holy Hour of Adoration on Wednesday mornings at 6:15 AM at St Teresa’s Church. This will be followed by coffee and fellowship in the hall for support and encouragement.


Take this step in faith—join us and experience a transformative Lent!


 

Women’s Lenten Programme – Fiat 40

Fiat 40 invites women seeking to grow closer to Christ by embracing the virtues of Mary—faith, humility, and devotion. Inspired by Mary’s fiat, her wholehearted "YES" to God, this programme combines daily prayer and intentional lifestyle sacrifices to create space for God’s grace and deeper spiritual growth.


With the support of a small group, women are invited to simplify their lives, strengthen their faith, and model Mary’s trust and obedience in their walk with Christ. Like the men’s Exodus programme, there are three core elements:

  • A routine of prayer

  • Disciplines, such as no meat on Wednesdays and Fridays

  • Support from others taking part in the programme


For more information, visit the diocesan website or contact Jacinta Nicholls:

📧 jacinta@sjr.nz | 📞 022 677 4249


In our parish, we invite women involved to gather for coffee and fellowship at 7:45 PM on Thursday nights at St Teresa’s Hall, followed by Adoration in the Church at 8:30 PM.


 

An Online Programme for Lent 

Strength to Strength – The Practical Benefits of Daily Prayer

A six-session series offering practical guidance for those looking to deepen their daily prayer life.


Inspired by the Catechism of the Catholic Church, this engaging and insightful series is presented by various speakers in a dynamic and often humorous way.


📅 Starts: Tuesday, 4 March

⏰ 7:30 PM

🔗 More information & registration: www.fdm.org.nz/strength 


 

Lenten Family Retreat Day 

"Neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again."— John 8:11


During this season of Lent, we reflect on God's incredible love for us. He seeks us, not to condemn us, but to forgive and heal us. Bring your family and spend a day together discovering the profound mercy of our Father.


📅 Date: Saturday, 5 April 2025

📍 Location: [Venue details here]

📧 To book: Email retreats@beatitudes.nz

📞 Phone: 022 103 6994


Join us for a meaningful journey of faith, renewal, and mercy!


 

Health Care Workers Mass

All healthcare workers are invited to a special Mass of Thanksgiving

📅 Sunday, 6 April

6 PM

📍 St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral

🍽️ Hospitality to follow


 


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