This Lent, the Diocese of Algoma and Thorneloe University invite individuals and groups to engage the Lenten journey through Movies for Lent—a seven-week, lectionary-based reflection series that pairs Scripture with thoughtfully chosen films.
Curated by the Rev. Jason Tripp, President, Thorneloe University, Movies for Lent is grounded in the conviction that faith and culture belong in meaningful conversation. Each week of Lent is shaped around a central theological theme drawn from the lectionary—lament, temptation, obedience, grace, revelation, redemption, and sacrifice—and is paired with a film that explores that theme through story, character, and human experience.
Rather than relying on explicitly religious films, the series engages respected contemporary and classic cinema that speaks honestly to the depth and complexity of the human condition. These films are not offered as illustrations with easy answers, but as invitations to reflection—opening space for conversation about grief, hope, moral courage, transformation, and self-giving love.
A Flexible, Self-Directed Resource
Movies for Lent is designed to be self-directed and adaptable. Registered participants will receive weekly discussion guides, which may be used for personal reflection or shared in small groups, parish gatherings, or online meetings. Groups may choose to commit to the full seven-week series or engage with individual weeks as their schedules allow.
As Tripp notes, the aim is not to blur the line between faith and culture, but to recover a long-standing Christian practice of thoughtful engagement:
“I believe these films have something to say that connects with the themes of the Lenten season, and they do so in a vulnerable, authentic, and artistic way. Historically, the Church has been at its best when it has engaged deeply with art and culture—and this series is an invitation to do that again.”
Whether used by individuals, families, or parish groups, Movies for Lent offers a creative and theologically grounded way to walk through the season—attending to Scripture, story, and the quiet work of reflection that prepares the heart for Easter.
Resources
Download the Complete Discussion Guide Folder Here
Download individually:
Wk1 (Ash Wednesday) – Mass, Lament
Discussion Guide Wk2 – Conclave, Temptation
Discussion Guide Wk3 – A Hidden Life, Obedience
Discussion Guide Wk4 – Calvary, Grace
Discussion Guide Wk5 – The Truman Show, Revelation
Discussion Guide Wk6 – Pig, Redemption
Discussion Guide Wk7 – The Iron Giant, Sacrificial Love