The Little Book of Lent by Arthur Howells Summary

The Little Book of Lent is a daily devotional anthology featuring reflections from renowned spiritual writers like Desmond Tutu, Rowan Williams, and Sheila Cassidy. Each entry includes scripture, prayers, and insights to guide readers through Lent, focusing on themes like sacrifice, prayer, and preparing for Easter. Designed for individual or group use, it blends diverse theological perspectives into a structured Lenten journey.

This book is ideal for Christians seeking a deeper spiritual practice during Lent, whether through solitary reflection or group discussion. It’s tailored for those valuing daily structure, ecumenical perspectives, or resources for leading Lent courses or home groups. Gift-givers may also find it suitable for friends or family pursuing faith-based growth.

Yes, particularly for readers wanting concise, varied reflections that combine classic spirituality with practical application. Its daily format, inclusion of globally respected theologians, and adaptable use for personal or communal settings make it a valuable resource for enriching Lenten observance.

The book offers daily entries for the Lenten period, each containing a curated excerpt from a spiritual writer, a supporting scripture passage, and a prayer. This trio of content ensures readers engage intellectually, biblically, and devotionally each day.

Contributors include Nobel Peace Prize laureate Desmond Tutu, former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, physician-spiritual writer Sheila Cassidy, and other influential Christian voices. These selections provide ecumenical breadth and depth.

Absolutely. The book is designed to spark discussion, making it ideal for Lent courses, Bible study groups, or family devotions. Its concise entries and reflection prompts encourage shared insights about faith and spiritual growth.

Key themes include repentance, prayerful introspection, the meaning of sacrifice, and joyful anticipation of Easter. The readings also explore resilience in faith, communal worship, and applying Christian teachings to modern life.

By pairing thought-provoking excerpts with relevant scriptures and guided prayers, the book creates a rhythm of daily spiritual discipline. This structure helps readers cultivate consistency and depth in their Lenten prayer life.

Yes. Each daily entry integrates a scripture passage that contextualizes the thematic reflection, grounding the reader’s meditation in biblical teachings.

Its portable format, accessible language, and focus on spiritual renewal make it a practical gift for Lent. The inclusion of diverse voices ensures broad appeal, while its daily structure offers tangible support for faith journeys.

Howells’ experience as a Canon Missioner and expertise in Celtic Christianity inform the book’s emphasis on contemplative traditions, community-focused faith, and bridging historical spirituality with contemporary practice.

Unlike single-author devotionals, this anthology aggregates wisdom from global Christian leaders, offering multilayered perspectives in one volume. Its balance of scholarly depth and approachable reflection distinguishes it from similar works.