Lent: An Opportunity to Accept Our Lord’s Invitation (E-Pistle Message)

On March 2, Ash Wednesday, we enter the holy season of Lent. This is an opportunity to accept our Lord’s invitation to journey with him to the cross and resurrection as the Mystical Body of Christ. It is also a time of reflection, penance, and conversion of heart where we are called to renounce sin and grow in holiness.

As ashes are imposed on our foreheads in the form of a cross, we are reminded of our human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God. The words, “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return,” remind us that our very existence is utterly dependent on God’s providential love.   

May we journey with one another through these next 40 days, following the footsteps of our Lord and Savior.  Let us pray for those who are suffering, those who hunger, those who are homeless and others who face the pangs of sin.

In communion with our Holy Father, Pope Francis, let us remember the people of Ukraine by fasting and praying for peace on Ash Wednesday. We bring our prayers to our Mother Mary, imploring her protection for the world so that war may give rise to peace and unity.