An Unlikely Lent Leader Guide
Extraordinary People of the Easter Story
Published December 2025
The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are at the heart of the story of Easter. But the resurrection was not witnessed in isolation; it unfolded before a crowd. What might the stories of those women and men teach us today? How will they help us step into the story of Easter? Here, we can see what has been overlooked, not just in the grand moments but in the in-between: the silence, the side characters, and the questions.
Gain new insight from the crowd on the themes of:
-Devotion
-Opposition
-Freedom
-Courage
-Companionship
-Alliances
By seeing the Easter story through their eyes, we may discover that the resurrection is not just a past event, but an invitation into something new, unexpected, and unlikely. Walk through this season with eyes wide open, ready to see where God is moving, even in the margins. Since the cross is not the end of the story, embrace every unlikely moment along the way.
The Leader Guide contains discussion questions and session plans for a six-week study of An Unlikely Lent. It includes opening and closing prayers, optional activities, and weekly session goals. It is designed to be used with the book and DVD.
Videos
About the Author
Rachel Billups
Rachel Billups believes the Gospel is more adventure than assignment, and she has spent her ministry trying to live it. As Senior Pastor of New Albany United Methodist Church in New Albany, Ohio, she is an ordained Elder, a sought-after voice at national gatherings, and a coach to pastors learning to lead brave. Her books An Unlikely Lent, An Unlikely Advent, and Be Bold: Finding Your Fierce invite readers into the margins of the biblical story, because that is usually where grace shows up with the good snacks. As co-founder of hub4innovation.org, she gathers church leaders helping to build the future of the Church. Rachel and her husband are raising four remarkable kids and trying (mostly successfully) to keep their dogs off the furniture. Find her at www.rachelbillups.com.