THIS LENT
PIERCED BY LOVE
A Lenten Pilgrimage with Mary
Seven weeks. Seven sorrows. One transforming journey into the heart of Christ through Mary’s
pierced heart.
Walk With Mary This Lent
This is not a retreat about Mary—it’s a retreat with Mary. She becomes our contemplative
companion, the one who shows us how to stand with Christ in the mystery of redemptive
suffering.
Over seven weeks, we’ll journey through Mary’s Seven Sorrows, discovering that each sorrow
is a window into a deeper mystery of Christ. Through her heart, pierced by the sword of
compassion, we encounter the wisdom of the Cross, the call to obedient trust, the faithfulness
of waiting, and the hope that does not fade.
Rooted in Carmelite spirituality—drawing from St. Teresa of Ávila, St. John of the Cross, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and St. Edith Stein—this retreat offers both theological depth and contemplative practice.
The Seven Sorrows
Each sorrow reveals a facet of Christ’s redemptive love and invites us
into deeper surrender
What’s Included
Everything you need for a transformative Lenten journey
Contemplative Prayer
25 minutes of guided prayer with extended silence each week. Experience the depth of
Carmelite contemplative practice.
Rich Teaching
Drawing from Scripture, Church Fathers, and Carmelite saints. Theological depth made
accessible and practical.
Small Group Reflection
Intimate groups of 4-6 people for sharing and mutual support in a safe, sacred space.
Participant Handbook
Beautiful handbook with reflection questions, journal prompts, and weekly practices for
deeper integration.
Session Recordings
Can’t attend live? All sessions recorded and available for 48 hours. Never miss the
journey.
Weekly Emails
Reflections, practices, and encouragement delivered to your inbox throughout the
week.
Retreat Schedule
Seven weekly sessions beginning February 11, 2026
Weekly Session Structure
5 MINS
25 MINS
25 MINS
20 MINS
10 MINS
5 MINS
Opening ritual & candle lighting
Teaching from Scripture & Carmelite spirituality
Guided contemplative prayer with extended silence
Small group reflection (4-6 people)
Plenary sharing
Weekly practice & closing prayer
What Participants Say
Hear from those who have experienced our contemplative retreats
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat welcomes anyone seeking contemplative depth during Lent—whether you’re navigating grief, feeling stuck in your spiritual life, drawn to Mary’s witness, or simply hungry for deeper prayer. No experience with contemplative practice is necessary.
Do I need to be Catholic?
While rooted in Catholic tradition and Carmelite spirituality, Christians of all denominations are welcome. The contemplative practices and scriptural teachings transcend denominational boundaries.
What if I can’t attend live?
All sessions are recorded and available for 48 hours. You can watch at your convenience and still receive the full benefit of the retreat, though we encourage live participation when possible for the small group experience.
What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a computer or tablet with internet access, Zoom (free to download), a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted, and a candle. We’ll provide your participant handbook and all other materials.
Is there a cost?
The retreat fee is £76.99 and includes all seven sessions, participant handbook, recordings, and weekly email reflections. Subsidized places are available for those with financial need—please contact us at admin@carmelite.org.uk. Cost should never be a barrier to this journey.
How is this different from other Lenten programs?
This is a deeply contemplative retreat, not a discussion group. We emphasize extended silence, guided prayer, and interior transformation. Drawing from Carmelite spirituality, we focus on encounter with Christ through Mary rather than intellectual study about Mary.
When does registration close?
Registration closes on February 6, 2026, to allow time for preparation. Spaces are limited to preserve the intimacy of small group sharing, so early registration is encouraged.
Begin Your Journey
This Lent, let Mary teach you what it means to love without
limits, to stand where love requires you to stand, to remain open
even when pierced by pain.
Registration closes February 6, 2026. Limited spaces available.
Questions? Email us at admin@carmelite.org.uk
Financial assistance available—don’t let cost be a barrier.
REGISTER NOW …
2026-01-15