For the second year running, Mission Together (the children’s branch of Missio) received a flurry of wonderful entries to its Lent Through a Lens photo competition. We invited children to submit images which they felt represented the season of Lent.

Schools across England and Wales (and one from the United States) rose to the challenge. Pupils from all year groups submitted beautiful entries; like St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary, where so many entries were submitted that staff were able to create the impressive display in our featured image (above)!

Pupils from St Teresa’s Primary also responded enthusiastically. Deputy Headteacher, Catherine Phillips explained,

‘The children really enjoyed taking part in this competition and it has certainly brightened up our Twitter feed in this challenging time for our world’.

More than a photo challenge

Lent Through a Lens is more than just a photo challenge. Pupils also ponder the meaning of this special season and provide a written explanation as to why they feel their image represents Lent. This resulted in some inspirational reflections, such as that shared by Rafael, who alongside his winning entry (pictured) wrote,

‘The tunnel represents the darkness Jesus had to go through… The light represents humanity’s redemption, won for us by Jesus.’

Our brilliant winners

After some deliberation, Mission Together selected four winners: Mollie (St Patrick’s, Troon), Rose (St Teresa’s, Upholland), Amelia (St Cuthbert’s, Chester-Le-Street), and Rafael (Finchley Catholic High School).

Thank you to all the schools who promoted Lent Through a Lens and for all the children who took part. Watch some of our brilliant 2022 images and explanations below: