Lent began this past Wednesday, March 5. Did it catch you by surprise? Do you have plans in place for your Lenten practices? If you’re like some of us, the season arrived somewhat unexpectedly — and we’re glad to remember that there are no grades issued for spiritual habits. It’s okay to get plans figured out a little late when it comes to Lent. If you’re looking for something to get your creative ideas flowing, read spiritual director Jamie Noyd’s article as she introduces us to a practice of gentle retreat that can be woven into the fabric of everyday life. And if you’re seeking something a bit more structured, join our online Lenten Prayer Experience. (It’s okay if you’ve missed a few days — no one will judge!)

“After months of ministry, being bombarded by news, reading a myriad of books, and sitting at many tables, I’m tired and feel like I don’t know myself or know God as I would like. I have so many stories wandering around my mind. I long for time in a cave or a writing shed. But at this time in my life, they aren’t available to me. ”

This week also kicked off Women’s History Month, and you’re just in time to observe International Women’s Day tomorrow on March 8. At a time in history when things can feel a little complicated for women in university spaces or in leadership, it’s good to remember the trailblazers who went before us and their fierce spirits. We’re reminded of this poem by Anne Pharr about the feminine fierce — a kind of energy that we can use more of in the world. Anne invites us all to consider the question: what does it mean to be fierce and faithful in our own lives? Seek out ways to use your God-given gifts, dear ones — the world needs us.

“A woman who is fierce is not unflawed or faultless,but instead is a woman with fidelity —holding faithfully to her own foundational convictionseither until they come to fruition — whether for many, for a few, for only one — or until the fight has ended. ”

You’re Invited!

Would you (or someone you know) enjoy working with Women Scholars and Professionals? We’re looking for people with skills in marketing & communications and editing & content. Check out our job listings!

Pray with us! You can join our online, 30-minute guided prayer meetings on Fridays at 8 am, 9 am, and 12 pm (Eastern). Can’t come? Send your prayer requests anyway by emailing us at wsap@intervarsity.org. Ready to pray? Join the Zoom meeting here for those Friday meetings.

A Lenten Prayer Experience. How do you plan to observe Lent this year? Join us for a gentle rhythm of prayer based on the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. Click through for sign-up information and more details! Begins March 5.

MORE FROM OUR FRIENDS AT INTERVARSITY PRESS

• Faculty exam copies. Professors can request a free exam or desk copy. Register for a professional account to access this benefit!

• Are you an InterVarsity alum? Use promo code IVCFALUMNI to get a 25% discount at ivpress.com.

OTHER EVENTS

Faith Formation in the Digital Age. Author and professor Dr. Felicia Wu Song will be teaching a summer seminar on digital technology and spiritual formation at Calvin University, July 21-25, 2025. This seminar will be offered at no cost to selected participants. Space is limited. Application deadline is March 15, 2025.

Emerging Scholars Network Conversations. Join our sister organization for their upcoming online conversations on important topics!

• On Leadership with Nicole Massie Martin, author of Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender. March 12, 12 pm (eastern)

Four More Things We Loved This Week

1. James Webb Telescope Reveals a Dazzling Light Show From the Milky Way’s Black Hole

2. “His words change people.” Tish Harrison Warren writes on the work of Stanley Hauerwas.

3. What Christian aid program cuts look like: Spoiled food in Ethiopia, no polio vaccine.

4. Seven keys to longevity. (NY Times, unlocked)