The poem, “Catechumen,” by author Madeleine L’Engle makes a wonderful addition to the observation of Lent. “Catechumen” narrates a conversation between “The Wind” and “A Very Young Star” as they watch what the listener comes to understand is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. There are also allusions to the Trinity and the Holy Spirit, and the groaning of all creation at the crucifixion–something not often examined, but very much in line with L’Engle’s interest in astrophysics and the natural world. What makes this a particularly good poem to add to a Holy Week service or Sunday in Lent, is that it provides an opportunity to involve an older child or youth in worship reading the part of “A Very Young Star.” This is what we did when we staged a reading of this poem, and I think it was very effective.
L’Engle is a favorite of ours, and we’ve used her work in a variety of ways in worship and Bible Study. A Call to Worship based on her work “A Ring of Endless Light” can be found here.
“Catechumen” is included in Madeleine L’Engle’s collection, The Crosswick’s Journals. I’m posting it here in accordance with the guidelines provided by her publishers.
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