LENT 2004

"RADICAL CONVERSION"

The evocative rite of the imposition of ashes marks the beginning of the holy season of Lent, when the Liturgy once more calls the faithful to radical conversion and trust in Gods mercy.

"THE CONDITION OF CHILDREN"

This years theme "Whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me" invites us to reflect on the condition of children.

"THE LEAST"

"To become" one of the least and "to receive" the little ones: These are two aspects of a single teaching which the Lord repeats to His disciples in our time. Only the one who makes himself one of the "least" is able to receive with love the "least" of our brothers and sisters.

"RADIANT LIGHT"

Jesus took human suffering upon Himself and illuminated it with the radiant light of His Resurrection. By His death, He conquered death once for all.

"THE LIGHT OF HOPE"

During Lent, we prepare to relive the Paschal Mystery, which sheds the light of hope upon the whole of our existence, even its most complex and painful aspects.

"OUR LENTEN JOURNEY"

Let us set out with trust on our Lenten journey, sustained by fervent prayer, penance and concern for those in need.

"EVER GREATER CONCERN"

May this Lent be a time of ever greater concern for the needs of children, in our own families and in society as a whole: for they are the future of humanity.

"OUR FATHER!"

Our Father! Let us repeat this prayer often during Lent; let us repeat it with deep emotion.

"BROTHERS AND SISTERS"

By calling God "Our Father", we will better realize we are His children and feel we are brothers and sisters of one another.

OPEN HEARTS

It will be easier for us to open our hearts to the little ones, following the invitation of Jesus: "Whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me" (Mt 18:5).

(Source: 2004 Lenten Message, issued December 8, 2003)