‘Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.’ – James 4.8
The Diocese of York is encouraging churches to engage with the Church of England’s Lent theme for 2026, which is Draw Near: Life-Giving Habits for Lent.
This year’s resources have at their heart the theme of a ‘rhythm of life’ – habits and patterns which help us grow as disciples of Christ day by day, especially as we prepare to celebrate the great mystery of God’s saving love at Easter.
During Lent, reflections are centred around a summary of the Christian Way from Common Worship, which identifies six activities essential to our calling as disciples.
Each week a different contributor explores a different aspect of Christian discipleship – worshipping together, praying, exploring the Bible, sharing communion, offering service and sharing the good news with others.
“Draw Near is all about teaching us how we can cultivate the habits and practices that will draw us nearer to God. And we will find that, in doing so, God will draw nearer to us, too.” – Archbishop-elect Sarah Mullally & Archbishop Stephen Cottrell
National Resourcing
- A full-colour Church House Publishing booklet, designed to be affordable for bulk purchase, with money-saving packs of 10 and 50 will be available for pre-order very soon and published by 5 January. The Everyday Faith app will carry reflections for adults every Monday to Saturday throughout Lent, based on the booklet. And, of course, the Everyday Faith app will continue to offer content into the season of Easter and beyond throughout 2026. Preview all themes and readings from the Draw Near reflections here.
- This year we’re inviting families and children to explore the life-giving habit of generosity this Lent with 40acts. Produced in partnership with 40acts (brought to you by Stewardship), this 40-day challenge is designed to help families and children to join in the Draw Near journey. As well as an act of generosity, each day also offers a simple Bible verse, reflection and prayer ideal for families, children, school and church groups to do together.
- A resource for those looking to use the materials with small groups, prayer groups or as a Lent course.
Diocesan Rhythm of Life
The Church of England’s Lent focus on life-giving habits speaks into so much of the culture that has been growing in the Diocese of York with the Rhythm of Life. As we grow in Becoming More Like Christ, Lent offers us a seasonal opportunity to intentionally reflect on the spiritual practices which we inhabit, and as communities, form a Rhythm of Life together.
The life-giving habits of worship, prayer, scripture, communion, service, and sharing the Good News, echoes much of our own Diocesan Rhythm of Life, as well as connecting beautifully with the promises we make at baptism – as we seek to serve Christ in all people, by defending the weak, and seeking peace and justice.
Look out for new resources in January to help embed a Rhythm of Life in your church community!
