A Place For Us: A Lent course based on West Side Story

A Place for Us is an original Lent course that explores the themes of fear, love, betrayal, death, and reconciliation through the study and discussion of key scenes from the film West Side Story and related Lent passages from scripture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2022
Publisher: Darton, Longman & Todd Ltd

A Place for Us is a unique Lent course that draws inspiration from the recent film adaptation of West Side Story, directed by Steven Spielberg and featuring the iconic songs of Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein. Through in-depth study and engaging discussions of key scenes from the movie, coupled with Lenten passages from scripture, Lavinia Byrne and Jane McBride guide us in reflecting on profound themes such as fear, love, betrayal, death, and reconciliation.

The course is structured into five weekly sessions, each delving into distinct themes:

Belonging: This session explores the concept of identity and belonging, examining how individuals navigate the complexities of different cultures, backgrounds, and identities.

Otherness and Difference: This session examines the dynamics of prejudice, discrimination, and understanding between different groups of people. It challenges us to confront our biases and work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

The Gift of Love: This session explores the profound power of love and its ability to heal, transform, and bring hope to individuals and communities. It examines the different forms of love and the challenges we face in expressing and receiving love.

The Promise of a Place for Us: This session explores the idea of a sacred space where individuals can come together, connect, and find solace. It examines the importance of community and the role it plays in our personal growth and well-being.

The Tragedy of Betrayal: This session examines the devastating consequences of betrayal and the healing process that follows. It explores the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of reconciliation.

To enhance our learning experience, the course includes preparatory material for each session. This includes a Gospel reading that provides insights into the themes being explored. Additionally, resources such as a suggested film clip, discussion points, questions, exercises, a Psalm, and a poem by Phil Lane are provided to facilitate group discussions and deepen our understanding of the material.

By participating in this course, we embark on a journey of self-reflection, growth, and connection with others. We gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human emotions and relationships, and are inspired to live lives of empathy, compassion, and reconciliation. A Place for Us offers a unique opportunity to explore the themes of West Side Story and Lent in a meaningful and enriching way, fostering a deeper understanding of our faith and our place in the world.

Weight: 112g
Dimension: 110 x 177 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915412171