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Gather for GraceSmall Groups for Lent at St. Thomas the Apostle2026
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What is Gather for Grace?
Gather for Grace is a small-group experience offered during the season of Lent. Parishioners gather once a week to pray, reflect, and share faith together, using the upcoming Sunday readings as a guide. The goal is to deepen our relationship with God and with one another through Scripture and community.
How often do groups meet, and for how long?
Groups meet once a week during Lent for about an hour to an hour and a half. Each session is designed to be simple and manageable, allowing participants to engage meaningfully without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
How large are the groups?
Each group consists of approximately 8–10 people. This size is intentional, large enough to include a variety of perspectives, but small enough that everyone can participate and no one feels lost or overlooked.
Where do the groups meet?
Groups may meet in parish spaces, but ideally they gather in the homes of the Hosts or another member of the group. Meeting in a home reflects the way the early Church gathered and helps create a welcoming, comfortable, and relational environment.
What is the focus of each session?
Each session is based on the readings for the upcoming Sunday. Participants are invited to reflect on how God’s Word speaks to their daily lives, preparing them to hear the Scriptures more deeply when they are proclaimed at Mass.
Is this a Bible study or theology discussion group?
No. Gather for Grace is not intended to be a forum for theological debate or academic discussion. The focus is on personal reflection, shared faith, and listening to one another, rather than analyzing or debating the texts.
What kind of atmosphere should the group have?
The groups are meant to be welcoming, respectful, and participatory. They should not become cliques, nor should they feel heavy or burdensome. Every member is encouraged to participate, and no single voice should dominate the conversation.
What is the overall goal of Gather for Grace?
The goal is to create space for God’s Word, for honest reflection, and for genuine community. By gathering regularly during Lent, participants are invited to carry their faith beyond Sunday Mass and into the rhythm of everyday life.
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As a Host for Gather for Grace, your role is essential in creating a welcoming, prayerful, and respectful environment. Hosts are not teachers or experts, but facilitators of community and shared reflection.
Before the Session
• Commit to attending and hosting the weekly gathering during Lent.
• Prepare the space so it is comfortable and hospitable.
• Review the session materials and upcoming Sunday readings ahead of time.
• Pray for the members of your group and for openness to the Holy Spirit.
During the Session
• Welcome participants warmly and help everyone feel at ease.
• Begin and end the gathering on time, respecting participants’ schedules.
• Guide the flow of the session, helping the group stay focused and balanced.
• Encourage participation from all members, while gently preventing any one person from dominating the conversation.
• Maintain a respectful, prayerful atmosphere.
• Redirect conversation when it moves toward debate, argument, or unrelated topics.
• Model attentive listening, openness, and humility.
After the Session
• Close with prayer and gratitude for the group’s sharing.
• Follow up pastorally if a participant seems particularly burdened or in need of support (and refer concerns to Fr. Matt when appropriate).
• Communicate any questions or concerns to Fr. Matt.
• Submit feedback after each session using the Host Feedback Form on the Gather for Grace webpage: www.stthomas-church.org/gfg ;
What Hosts Are Not Expected to Do
• Teach theology or provide expert answers.
• Lead debate or resolve disagreements.
• Offer counseling or spiritual direction.
• Fix problems or carry the emotional weight of the group alone.
Your primary responsibility is to create space: space for God’s Word, for honest sharing, and for respectful community.
Information Sessions for Hosts (choose one):
Monday, February 2, 9:00am in the Gathering Hall
Tuesday, February 3, 5:30pm in Church
Thursday, February 5, 7:00pm in the Gathering Hall
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Gather for Grace is a Lenten small-group experience designed to help parishioners reflect on the Word of God, grow in faith, and build meaningful connections within the parish community. Participants are invited to gather once a week with others from the parish to pray, listen, and share together in a welcoming and respectful environment.
What to Expect
• Weekly gatherings during the season of Lent in a small-group setting (approximately 8–10 people).
• Sessions rooted in the readings for the upcoming Sunday Mass.
• A relaxed, prayerful atmosphere focused on reflection rather than debate or discussion.
• Opportunities to share personal insights—or simply listen, if you prefer.
• Groups that meet either in parish spaces or in the homes of Hosts.
What Is Expected of Participants
• Make a sincere effort to attend weekly sessions during Lent.
• Arrive with an open heart and a willingness to listen respectfully to others.
• Share from your own experience, as you feel comfortable.
• Honor confidentiality so that the group remains a safe and trusting space.
• Respect the diversity of experiences and perspectives within the group.
What This Is (and Is Not)
• Gather for Grace is not a theology class or Bible study.
• It is not a place for debate, argument, or persuasion.
• It is a space for prayerful reflection, faith-sharing, and community.
Whether you are deeply rooted in your faith or simply seeking a place to reconnect during Lent, Gather for Grace offers a meaningful way to walk the Lenten journey with others.
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Gather for Grace also offers an opportunity for individual families to take part in a shared Lenten journey within their own homes. This option is designed for families who may not be able to join a weekly group or who wish to reflect together as a household.
What This Option Offers
• Weekly, at-home reflection based on the upcoming Sunday readings.
• Simple, accessible materials designed for conversation and prayer within the family.
• Flexibility to meet at a time that fits your family’s schedule.
• An opportunity to deepen faith together during the Lenten season.
Who This Is For
• Families with young children or busy schedules.
• Couples or individuals who prefer a home-based option.
• Households looking to connect Sunday Mass more intentionally with life during the week.
What Is Expected
• A commitment to setting aside time each week during Lent for prayer and reflection.
• A willingness to listen to one another and share faith in a respectful way.
• An openness to allowing Scripture to guide conversation and prayer at home.
What This Is (and Is Not)
• This is not a formal lesson or teaching program.
• It is not meant to be complicated or burdensome.
• It is a simple way to invite God’s Word into the life of your family during Lent.
Gather for Grace for families is an invitation to slow down, pray together, and allow the season of Lent to shape the rhythm of home life.
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