Wednesday signals the beginning of Lent where some people across the diocese will take part in fasting, bible studies or other activities.

The Ven Clive Hogger, Archdeacon of Cornwall, writes ‘the season of Lent is a special time in our year when we pay attention to our brokenness in preparation for the supernatural healing of all creation made possible by Easter’.

He said Lent is traditionally characterised by three strands – fasting, acts of service, and Bible study.

Image shows a plate with brownies on a plate and a person in the background with their hand palm forward as if saying 'no'.

iStock image. Credit: Farknot

He plans to take part in a ‘Black Fast’, which involves not eating anything until sundown.

Writing about this fast, he explained: “This fast involves not eating at all during daylight hours, and then at sundown having a simple meal – not a feast, we save that for Sundays which are not included.

“Over recent years I have committed to this discipline, making sure I keep my fluids up during the day, and have found my faith has blossomed, resulting in me wanting to engage in reading the Bible more and in acts of service to others.”

Across the diocese, there will be a number of Lent courses taking place:

  • St Stephen’s church, Saltash, will be running The Lectio Course for five weeks starting on February 25  from 7pm.
  • In Redruth, Generosity Bible Study – Diocese of Exeter  ‘looking at God’s generosity to us and our call to live generously in return’ is running in four different venues starting this week. More information about the church can be found here: https://redruthchurch.org.uk/
  • In and around Camborne, Lent discussion groups on Psalms will take place from 7.30pm starting on February 23. More information can be found on the Camborne Cluster website.
  • Treslothan Church will be holding sessions on Thursday evenings from Thursday February 19, 7,30pm- 9pm in Troon titled ‘Come and See’. It will be a space for people to meet and ‘spend time with Jesus, to rest and relax in his presence’.
  • St Mary’s Church, Callington, has a Lent course exploring ‘belonging in Christ’. It runs from Wednesday, February 18 – April 1, 2pm-3pm, in the Tower Room.
  • Nationally, Climate Stewards are promoting a carbon fast. Each week it offers ideas on how to help reduce your carbon footprint.