It is a 40-day time of prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor that helps Christians prepare to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at Easter. It is a time of reflection, repentance, and transformation. A time to make right with others and God.

Rather than fasting or giving up something for Lent, more and more often the focus has become that of a conversion of the heart as Christians try to become more like Christ, and give up the behaviours that are not life-giving to others. Therefore, ‘fasting’ could include such things as sharing your time and gifts with others and donating money where it is needed - being bringers of hope to others.

Hope is a powerful force, and when it's lacking, it can truly stifle dreams and aspirations. Addressing this deficit of hope is essential for fostering a society where dreams can flourish, and voices can be heard.

In the lead up to 2025, which is a Jubilee Year, Pope Francis designated 2024 a Year of Prayer. This year of prayer was to encourage people to focus on a prayer life that comes from the heart. He wanted our hearts ready for a Jubilee Year, where we are to be pilgrims of hope.

This idea of pilgrimage is an active one. The idea that we put one foot in front of the other – it indicates we are going somewhere. So, where are we going this Lent?

This led me to thinking about Pope Francis’ message for Lent last year. It is titled Through the Desert God Leads us to Freedom. When we think of deserts, we often think of places that are dry and desolate. Our lives can be like this where we have ‘moments when we feel hopeless, wandering through life like a desert’.[1] Moving from a desert place into a place of reflection offers an opportunity to focus on personal growth, spiritual renewal, and acts of compassion. By embracing the spirit of Lent, individuals can find new sources of inspiration and hope, which can collectively contribute to a more hopeful and creative society. How do you envision this Lenten journey impacting your community? Are there specific actions or initiatives you think could help foster this sense of renewal and hope?

[1] Pope Francis (2024), Lenten Message, Through the Desert God Leads us to Freedom. Dicastero per la Comunicazione - Libreria Editrice Vaticana

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