The format of the evening reflected the traditional Lenten rhythm of prayer and repentance. The Blessed Sacrament was exposed and priests were available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, allowing many to confess their sins and prepare their hearts in the quiet of the church. Holy Mass was then celebrated, with Bishop Peter Collins as Principal Celebrant. The evening concluded in the Parish Centre with a simple Lenten offering of soup and rolls, warmly enjoyed by all.
Lenten Station Masses have a long and venerable history in the life of the Church. Rooted in the ancient Roman practice of gathering at designated “stations” for prayer and Eucharist during Lent, they express both pilgrimage and communion. In a diocesan context, they are a powerful sign of unity, as parishes come together around their bishop, journeying collectively towards Easter. They also serve as a reminder that Lent is not only a personal undertaking of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, but a shared pilgrimage of faith.
The first reading, from the Book of Esther (4:17), set a tone of earnest supplication. Queen Esther’s courageous prayer, offered in a moment of peril for her people, is a profound expression of humility and dependence upon God. Stripped of earthly security, she entrusts herself entirely to the Lord’s mercy. During Lent, the Church invites us into that same spirit, to recognise our need, to turn back to God with sincere hearts, and to intercede for the needs of the world.
The Gospel, from Saint Matthew (7:7–12), continued this theme of trust and confidence in prayer: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” In the midst of Lenten discipline, these words are both encouragement and promise. Our fasting and penitence are not empty gestures, but acts of hopeful trust in a Father who knows how to give good things to His children. The passage concludes with the Golden Rule, calling us to treat others as we would wish to be treated, a fitting Lenten examination of conscience and a practical outworking of charity.
In his homily, Bishop Peter reflected on the enduring importance of the tradition of Lenten Station Masses. He spoke warmly of their role in strengthening diocesan identity and encouraging the faithful to look beyond their own parish boundaries. He urged greater attendance and engagement in future years, emphasising that these gatherings are not simply events in the calendar, but privileged moments of grace for the whole Diocese. He expressed his gratitude to all who had come, acknowledging the witness given by their presence.
The Bishop also took the opportunity to commend Mgr Canon E. Harkness and all at OLEM for their tremendous work around Midnight Mass at Christmas, which was broadcast live on the BBC. He described it as a shining example not only for the Diocese but for the entire country, a testament to reverent liturgy, careful preparation and the dedication of clergy and laity alike.
Following Mass, the congregation made their way to the Parish Centre, where simple soup and rolls were shared. The atmosphere was one of warmth and fellowship, conversations flowing easily as people from different parishes met and reconnected. In its simplicity, the meal echoed the spirit of Lent, modest, communal and centred on what truly matters.
As the Diocese continues its Lenten journey, the Station Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption & the English Martyrs stood as a clear reminder that we walk this path together, sustained by the Eucharist, strengthened by prayer and united in hope as we move towards the joy of Easter.
Photographs from the Mass can be accessed here.
