The main themes of Lent are well articulated in the readings and the symbols for Ash Wednesday. Ashes were used to express mourning, remorse, and penitence in ancient times. “My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:5-6).

The Lent cycle is interesting as it does not leave us in the dark. It offers us a way of speaking about death and new life in symbols and imagery of Christian hope. “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” (John 12:24).

Liturgically, the season of Lent marks the start of the redemption cycle. AJ Bethke (South African organist, music composer and liturgist) examines the musical links between the liturgy and music.He describes the redemption cycle as a celebration of the mystery of divine suffering and triumph over death. The theme of redemption is essential for us as a school to emphasise. Part of the learning process is that we will make mistakes. What matters is correcting our mistakes and doing better. This cycle is reflected in our approach to issues of discipline and justice.

Dr Huysamer often reminds staff to check in with the girls to see if they are still on track. If they are not, there is enough time to correct their mistake and get back on track. The cycle of redemption needs to be repeated regularly. This repetition is reflected in the readings for Lent being the same each year.

Lent is a time to slow down and pause to pay attention —inwardly and outwardly.

We wish everyone a fruitful Lent.

REVD RAKGADI KHOBO
CHAPLAIN