“Aspire not to have more, but to BE more”

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and giving to others. 

As we prepare for Easter, the most important time in the Church, let us remember Jesus’ message of love and mercy.  As we journey through Lent I call on all members of our community to “Be More” in our own lives and the lives of others. 

Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, where for forty days , we are asked to follow Jesus on his road to Calvary.  We remember that despite his suffering Jesus showed mercy and forgiveness to those who had sentenced him to his death.  This powerful moment showed us the importance of both asking for forgiveness of God and showing forgiveness to others within our own lives.  During Lent we ask God to forgive us for the sins we have made. Traditionally on Ash Wednesday we would place a mark of ashes on our foreheads, however because of Covid we didn’t do this at school this year. 

When we pray we come closer to God so that we are better able to live justly as Jesus teaches us.  Fasting helps us to remember the needs of the poor, who often have no choice but to go without basic needs such as food, water and shelter.  Almsgiving, or giving to the poor, is a sign of our commitment to justice. It reminds us of how lucky we are and allows us to give thanks for all that God has given us.

Fasting, prayer and giving to others are important foci during Lent and Jesus taught us that we should not do them to show off or gloat about it to others. When we take the time to pray, fast and give to others we should do it because we are doing the right thing for others and by God. 

When, how and for whom will you pray for each day this Lent?

How will you fast this Lent? 

What will you give to others?  How will you manage this?