“For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you.”
1 Chronicles 29:14
Encouraging generosity at Lent
Lent is an important time for generosity as we celebrate celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who gave His life for the salvation of the world. It is through His ultimate act of love that we are invited to reflect, give thanks, and imitate His compassion in our own lives.
“Freely ye have received, freely give.’” – Matthew 10:8
Here you will find suggestions and resources to help spread generosity this Lent whether that is in giving or receiving.
5 Meaningful Ways to Give This Lent
- Give with purpose – Choose a cause that truly resonates with you this Lent. Whether it’s supporting another church in your parish, donating to a charity, or helping a neighbour in need, intentional giving can make a powerful impact.
- Give with time – Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back. From helping at local food banks to assisting animal shelters, your time can make a real difference. Not sure where to begin? Explore opportunities on the GOV.UK volunteer hub, or if you’re in Southwark, discover local options via Community Southwark.
- Give from your home – Why not start your spring clean a little early? Donating unwanted items to charity shops or collection schemes can transform someone else’s life. What you no longer need could be exactly what someone else is hoping for.
- Give through simplicity – Giving doesn’t have to be costly. Consider making small weekly changes, like skipping a coffee or a takeaway and donating the savings. Simple acts of generosity, even small ones, can create meaningful change.
- Give with gratitude – Spread kindness within your community by showing appreciation to those around you. A handwritten card, a bunch of flowers, or even a warm cup of tea can remind someone that they are valued. Lent is a time to reflect on what we have and to share that gratitude with others.
Digital Resources this Easter
Special Webinar: Digital resources for Lent and Easter 2026
The National Team will be running a webinar on Wednesday 21 January at 12.30 to explore this year’s Lent and Easter resources for churches. 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.
Register here: Webinar Registration – Zoom
Easter backgrounds for contactless machines
This year why not make your giving machine stand out with an Easter themed campaign?
Please find below some contactless backgrounds to download and use as your Give a Little campaign background.
The Church of England’s theme for Lent 2026 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.
40 Acts
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.
Download sample pages from Draw Near with 40acts for families and children.
Everyday Faith
Everyday Faith App
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.
The focus on habits and practices for discipleship in the reflections complements the focus on stories of discipleship from across the Anglican Communion which will be the focus for the 2026 Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book (published by SPCK), Dancing to the Heartbeat of God.
Here to help – Southwark Diocese
The Giving Team here at Southwark can support you in the following areas:
- encouraging planned giving
- the Parish Giving Scheme
- contactless giving
- online giving
- encouraging legacies
- Gift Aid
- fundraising and grants
We’re also pleased to assist and advise with Giving Programmes, and to visit your church to give talks or sermons. If you have any giving-related query, please do get in touch and we’d be pleased to talk with you.
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