Now in its seventh year, 40 Days of Lent and Service is an institutional initiative focused on offering a diverse range of service opportunities through which campus community members can connect and volunteer with local nonprofits in San Antonio. Initiated by President Tom Mengler through his collaborative work as a Board member for Catholic Charities of San Antonio, this effort reaches wider than just St. Mary’s, bringing all institutions in the city together to celebrate the Lenten season by responding to the needs present among us. Traditionally, Continuing the Heritage serves as a centerpoint to 40 Days, in collaboration with our community partner, Catholic Charities.

Lenten Virtual/Micro-Challenge 2023

  • Feb. 22, Ash Wednesday
  • Feb. 23 and 24, Community Tree of Action on-going throughout Lent
  • Feb. 25, Continuing the Heritage
  • Feb. 27 to March 4, Ecological Spirituality
  • March 5-11, Ecological Education
  • March 12-18, Spring Break (virtual challenge for Adoption of Sustainable Lifestyles)
  • March 19-25, Ecological Economics
  • March 26–April 1, Response to the Cry of the Earth
  • April 2-8, Response to the Cry of the Poor
  • April 6, Holy Thursday

Virtual Challenge/Micro-Challenge

Social media allows us to support one another and share our commitments to our faith. During Spring Break and other designated times during Lent, we invite the St. Mary’s University community to demonstrate your faith virtually. Tag @engagement to be entered into a prize drawing at the end of Lent.

#MeatlessMonday    
Demonstrate your commitment to earth-friendly meals by reducing your meat intake and sharing simple or creative meal options that highlight diversity and unique flavors

#SpringClean             
The spring equinox is March 20. Demonstrate your commitment to a simple lifestyle and renewal of self by eliminating clutter in your life and donating, recycling or up-cycling things you no longer use or need.

#WalkItWednesday or #WonderfulWednesday
Plan a walk outdoors. Demonstrate your commitment to ecological spirituality by connecting with nature and sharing your bit of wonder.

#FeelGoodFriday       
Did you commit to caring for a plant? Did you participate in Novenas for the first time? Share your commitment to Laudato Sí with a moment in nature or a new or compelling prayer from this Lenten season.

#40Days40Items        
Are you committing to a simpler lifestyle by decluttering your life? Share your commitment and progress online.

DEI

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