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Meeting God in Life’s Unexpected Places

Lenten Small-Group Series

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
  • Evening Group: 7 to 8:30 pm in the New Life Center Banquet Room

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.

 

Week 1:
 
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