MFC New Jersey

2025 Lenten Recollection: Hope Abounds in Every Heart

March 22, 2025 | Reflection by Kuya George

On a grace-filled Saturday morning, nearly 300 brothers and sisters gathered for our 2025 MFC New Jersey Lenten Recollection held on March 22. The day began early at 8:30 AM, gently ushered in by Holy Mass, a light breakfast, and praise-filled worship that set the tone for a day of deep reflection and renewal.

NJ Lent

Our beloved Spiritual Director, Fr. John Gordon, served as the Master of the Recollection, delivering three soul-stirring talks under the central theme:

"Hope Abound"
A call to anchor ourselves in God's unfailing hope, even in the most uncertain of times.

A Journey Through Hope and Trust

Each of the three sessions explored the richness of hope and the transformative power of trusting God amidst trials. After each talk, participants gathered in small groups for meaningful discussions, sharing insights, personal stories, and encouragement with one another.

The afternoon continued with a fellowship lunch and the sacred opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a perfect invitation to realign our hearts during this Lenten season.

NJ Lent 2

Fr. John’s message was clear and compelling:

No matter the hardship or the burden, our hope must remain rooted in God.

But hope isn't passive. It requires a response. As I listened and reflected, I realized that to fully embrace this hope, we must also be willing to transform ourselves. That transformation begins by:

  • Admitting our brokenness
  • Seeking forgiveness
  • Doing penance
  • And allowing God's grace to restore us**

NJ Lent3

This call to reconciliation is especially meaningful in this season of Lent and in light of the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal, mercy, and joy.

May we continue to walk in hope, and may that hope abound in our hearts, homes, and communities.

– Kuya George