The Dean of Ripon: Lent is an invitation to enjoy life in its fullness

There has been great debate amongst churches in recent weeks. Unable to make the usual sign of the cross in ash on people’s foreheads, how do we perform an alternative symbolic act to begin Lent 2021? Sprinkling ash on the head of each worshipper was one idea, one we opted for at the cathedral. I personally was just keen that people heard the powerful words that accompany this: ‘Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return, turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ.’

This message is rather more encouraging than it might at first seem. Yes, at the beginning of Lent, we are reminded that as human beings we are mortal and imperfect, and are encouraged to turn away from those practices which spoil our lives and those of others. But we are also being reminded that every human being is made in God’s image and is precious to him. Christians believe that image was seen most perfectly in Jesus, which is why we are encouraged in Lent to refocus on him.

Through Lent 2021, following the unprecedented year that we have endured, it is probably important to be kind to ourselves and each other, and to remember that Lent reminds us that at our best we are able to enjoy life in its fullness, as God intended. Lent invites us to capture a glimpse of what reflecting the image of God might just look like for ourselves, and to take the steps that bring us a bit nearer to that glorious vision. St Irenaeus, a second century bishop in Lyon, the south of France, once asserted that the glory of God is a human being fully alive.

Knowing which human traits constitute part of God’s image isn’t always straight-forward; this can lead to disagreements and even devastating injustice. Christians believe that Jesus Christ gives us the perfect example, yet that example has to be applied afresh in each age and situation. What is it to be Christ-like in North Yorkshire in the 21st century? Through the three cathedrals of the Diocese of Leeds this year, a number of people are observing Lent by taking part in the Church of England’s new course, Living in Love and Faith. This shares Christian teaching and learning about identity, sexuality, relationship and marriage. In living memory in this country, practising homosexuality was illegal. Many in society and the church have come a long way in their thinking, and the laws of this land now reflect very different beliefs and attitudes. We have seen remarkable developments in understanding of human identity, patterns in relationships and families, and sexual attitudes.

Living in Love and Faith is inviting people with different views to explore this subject together in a spirit of mutual love and support. That this can happen is a sign of progress in our quest to help every person discover God’s image in themselves and to live life to the full.