My dear sisters,
We begin the Holy season of Lent on March 2nd 2022. It is a time to renew ourselves to welcome God into our lives and allow Him to “make his dwelling” among us (cf. Jn 14:23). Holy Father reminds the faithful that the Lenten practices of fasting, almsgiving and prayer make it possible for us to live lives of sincere faith, living hope and effective charity, thereby sharing in Jesus' mission of the salvation of the world. He invites the faithful to draw from the “living water” of hope, and receive with open hearts the love of God.
The path of poverty and self-denial (fasting), concern and loving care for the poor (almsgiving), and childlike dialogue with the Father (prayer) make it possible for us to live lives of sincere faith, living hope and effective charity. Pope Francis wrote in the Encyclical ‘Fratelli Tutti’, it is only love that will enable humanity to rise above this time of increased isolation and build a civilization of love where effective paths of development are available for everyone. (n.183)
The call to experience Lent as a journey of conversion, prayer and sharing of our time, talents and goods, helps us – as communities and as individuals – to revive the faith that comes from the living Christ, the hope inspired by the breath of the Holy Spirit and the love flowing from the merciful heart of the Father.
I wish you all a fruitful Lenten season!