The season of Lent calls for us to reflect on and evaluate our relationship with God, others, and ourselves. The 40 days are usually marked with prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, with many people celebrating in their own personal ways. However, three proactive Stanners - Kristen Mussalli ‘25, Alyssa Bisono ‘25, and Christina Sbano ‘25 - came up with a way to incorporate Lent into the everyday fabric of Stanner life in a fun and interactive way!
The three Stanners approached Ms. Rose Haslbauer, Molloy’s Campus Minister for Service, with the idea of “Lenten Challenges,” a five-part series of week-long challenges that are “made to connect students with each other, make new friends, get to know the faculty, and spark their creativity.” Each challenge concludes with a reflection relating to Lent, sent out to the entire student body, faculty, and staff.
The first Lenten Challenge was titled “Simply Finding Nemo,” which reminded students to see God even if he feels hidden from us. The second challenge, “Digital Bingo,” allowed students to see how all of their backgrounds, stories, and Molloy experiences bring them together. “What Do You Meme: Stanner Edition” during week three encouraged students to look at life from different perspectives. Week four’s challenge helped students to better know the faculty around the school. Week five is still a mystery, but at the end of Lent, prizes will be given to the top three students with the most points!
Ms. Haslbauer shares, “A lot of the time we think of Lent as a period to reflect on suffering and sacrifice, but it can be a time of joyful reflection as well.” We thank her and the incredible Stanners who are always looking for innovative ways to incorporate our faith into fun activities that all students can participate in together!