Covering the Crosses

I had a parent ask me to “kidify” the meaning behind covering the crosses during the Lenten season. I really started to think deeply about the reason the crosses were covered and not just the answer that they were able to give which is “it is lent”.

A specific answer that is more inline with the adults is that during Lent, crosses are covered as a visual reminder of the solemnity and penitential nature of the season, leading up to the celebration of Jesus' resurrection on Easter.

I thought using the song "This Little Light of Mine" would help make sense of the hidden cross at Lent for a child. For those who know the song (as you should), it talks essentially about your light shining and not letting it be taken away. But it is also sharing that light out to the greater world around you. Kids are “Easter people” after all and it can be hard to grasp for kids and adults what the meaning of the Lenten season is really about and what my role is. This mystery of Easter unfolds over time and can gain more meaning as we grow.

Tempest B. Strunge, Director of Children and Youth

Read more Lenten reflections on St. Anne's Ministry Blog at https://bit.ly/3IpUjHn

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