We all tend to settle into our same seat, finding comfort in the familiar. However, life’s challenges, such as loss, illness, or unexpected change, can move us into new and unfamiliar places. This Lent, our Same Seat? series invites us to reflect on how God meets us there. Even when our seat changes, God is still holding the chair.
Our hope this Lent is for the entire parish to participate in a small-group experience. Parishioners are encouraged to start or join a group using the Same Seat? series, available on our parish website and YouTube channel. Each week features a short video with a faith-based teaching by Father Cahill, followed by a parishioner’s reflection and guided discussion questions.
We invite you to encourage three to ten people to gather with you in your home, workplace, or any comfortable setting to listen, share, and reflect together. Consider reaching out to a neighbor, fellow parishioner, or coworker. This short-term commitment is a simple and meaningful way to connect with others, build trust, and grow in faith. No prior experience is necessary, and everything you need is included in the video.
For those who would prefer to meet in small groups on our main campus, we offer two options on Wednesdays, starting on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18.
- Morning Group:
- 9:30 to 11 am in the New Life Center Banquet Room, Main Campus
- 10 to 11:30 am at the Waxhaw Campus
- Evening Group:
- 7 to 8:30 pm in the New Life Center Banquet Room, Main Campus
If meeting with a small group does not work with your schedule or does not appeal to you, this program is still for you! We welcome you to participate on your own, at your convenience, from the comfort of home. We are happy to have you join us in whatever way works best for you!
There is a place for everyone in this Lenten journey, and each story matters. Wherever you find yourself this season, you are welcome here.
Welcome to Same Seat, St. Matthew Catholic Church’s Lenten series created to draw our community closer to one another and closer to Christ.
Each week, we invite you to reflect on the gifts and challenges God has brought into your life and consider how He may be calling you to grow through them, whether personally or as a family.
This week, we meet the Sutherlands, parishioners whose first child was born with Microcephaly. Watch as they share how this unexpected journey transformed their lives, strengthened their marriage, and drew them deeper into trust in Christ in all things.
You can participate in a small group, join us on campus, or follow along on your own schedule from home. However you choose to journey this Lent, there is a seat for you.
If you would like a physical copy of this week’s discussion questions, you can download and print them. Click here for questions.
Same Seat? Episode 2: Chrissy Wilson – Honoring Marriage Vows in Difficult Times
In our second episode of Same Seat?, Chrissy Wilson shares her powerful story of love, loss, and faith. We are deeply grateful to Chrissy and her family for opening their hearts about the loss of her ex-husband and the challenges they faced along the way.
Even in the midst of hardship, Chrissy reflects on what it means to honor her marriage vows and how, through suffering, she has grown closer to Christ, her family, and her community. Her witness is one of courage, perseverance, and hope.
If you would like a physical copy of the discussion questions to guide your reflection or small group conversation, you can access and download them here.
This week, we sit down with Melissa as she shares her journey of moving to North Carolina and starting over from scratch. What could have been a season of uncertainty became a season of growth. In finding the St. Matthew community, Melissa found not only belonging, but a deeper faith and a renewed sense of purpose in her own personal and professional life.
We invite you to watch, reflect, and share with someone who may need encouragement in their own leap of faith.
If you would like a physical copy of the discussion questions to guide your reflection or small group conversation, you can access and download them here.
This week, we sit down with Ellen Deem, a teacher at St. Matthew Catholic School, as she shares her powerful story of perseverance and faith. After facing multiple health challenges, Ellen reflects on the strength she found through her faith and the unwavering support of the St. Matthew School and parish community. Her story is a moving reminder of how God works through the people around us, especially during life’s most difficult moments.
If you would like a physical copy of the discussion questions to reflect on this episode with family or friends, you can download the file here for your convenience.