Our Lenten Studies for 2026 will use Samuel Well’s
Power and Passion: Six Characters in Search of Resurrection
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Samuel Wells vividly paints the stories surrounding Jesus’ cross and resurrection. We see the weakness of Pontius Pilate and Barabbas, and the compromised character of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. We discover the subtle power of Pilate’s wife. And in Peter and Mary Magdalene we find the true power of resurrection, bringing forgiveness and ending the stranglehold of death, thus transforming all human passion. Through close readings of the gospel texts, Wells demonstrates the significance of these characters for faith and life today. In this book, structured with one chapter for each week of Lent, Wells guides us from the deathly power that put Jesus on the cross to the new power brought by Jesus’ resurrection. The book offers opportunities at the end of each chapter for prayer and discussion.
These study groups seek to be ecumenical in participation, with people from MtE, Parkville’s St Carthages, Carlton’s Church of All Nations and Kew Uniting Church being among those participating in previous groups. (Let us know if you would like to join our online ones!)
At the moment, two online (Zoom) groups are planned from Wednesday February 18 (7.45pm) and Friday February 20 (1.30PM), for six weeks (one week per chapter). (We are, however, hoping to be able to offer other groups in co-operation with other congregations — these will be added to the page here as they are confirmed). (Let us know if you would like to offer a parallel series of studies on this text we could advertise!)
Participants should get their own copies of the book. Amazon will be the quickest, but it is also available at other places more cheaply if you get in early; some sites have electonric versions, as well.
AND you might also be interested in:
Please register your intention to join the Lenten discussions below, so that you can receive the Zoom link for groups!
PLEASE REGISTER BELOW
