Lent

 

Pope Leo XIV’s Lenten message: Abstain from harsh words and rash judgement

Titled, "Listening and Fasting: Lent as a Time of Conversion," the papal message asked Catholics to come together as a community to listen to the word of God and to the vulnerable.

The pope also invited the faithful to engage in a "very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbor."

"Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves."

Instead, he asked, "let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace."

Lent is a time to "place the mystery of God back in the center of our lives, in order to find renewal in our faith and keep our hearts from being consumed by the anxieties and distractions of daily life," the pope wrote. 

The season of Lent begins on Wednesday, February 18^th. The Church prescribes “3 Pillars” to assist us during Lent:

1.    Prayer – helps heal our relationship with God

2.    Fasting – helps heal our relationship with ourselves

3.    Almsgiving – helps heal our relationship with others

As Lent begins let us take time to focus on our relationships – with God, with myself, with others. May these days be filled with many blessings.