Fifth Sunday of Lent

Beginning the Return

We have come far in this Lenten journey.

We entered the labyrinth with intention.
We released what we were carrying.
We walked more freely.
We rested at the center.
We waited and received.

Now, something shifts.

This week, we begin the final movement of the labyrinth: the return.

The return is not simply retracing our steps. It is a different kind of walking. We carry something now that we did not have before—an awareness, a word, a quiet knowing, perhaps even a small seed of hope.

As you prepare to watch this reflection, take a moment to look back:

What has this Lenten journey been for you so far?
What have you released?
What have you received?

And as you begin to imagine stepping outward again, consider this question:

What do you want to carry with you as you return to the world?

When you are ready, begin the reflection.

Your Practice This Week

Returning with Hope

The journey outward has begun.

But we do not leave the center empty-handed.

This week, you are invited to choose a symbol—something simple that represents what you want to carry with you as you return:

• Water, for renewal or flow

• A stone, for grounding and steadiness

• A balloon, for joy or lightness

• Or any object that holds meaning for you

As you walk the labyrinth (or trace it with your finger), imagine holding this object.

Let it remind you:

• of what you have released

• of what you have received

• of who you are becoming

You may notice something new rising within you.

A sense of clarity
A quiet courage
Or perhaps, as Kara names it, a song of hope in your weary throat

Do not rush past it.

Let it grow.

As you continue this week, dare to believe that you can return differently—not perfectly, but honestly. Not dramatically, but faithfully.

God has met you in this journey.
And God walks with you still.

Next week, we will complete the labyrinth together as we reflect on how this journey prepares us to walk through Holy Week.