Dear Brothers and Sisters,

When we receive ashes, we hear the words: "Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return" or "Repent and believe in the Gospel." Both phrases Pope Francis has said are "a reminder of the truth of human existence: We are limited creatures, sinners always in need of repentance and conversion."

Pope Francis has encouraged Catholics to practice charity in Lent this year by caring for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. In his message for Lent 2021, the pope asks people to "experience Lent with love," which "rejoices in seeing others grow." 

"To experience Lent with love means caring for those who suffer or feel abandoned and fearful because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In these days of deep uncertainty about the future, let us keep in mind the Lord's word to his Servant, 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you' (Isaiah 43:1). In our charity, may we speak words of reassurance and help others to realize that God loves them as sons and daughters."

The pope emphasized that even a small amount of almsgiving, when offered with "joy and simplicity," can multiply, as did "the loaves blessed, broken and given by Jesus to the disciples to distribute to the crowd."

"Love is a gift that gives meaning to our lives. It enables us to view those in need as members of our own family, as friends, brothers or sisters. A small amount, if given with love, never ends, but becomes a source of life and happiness."

This Lent, as we become still, let us not engage in too much navel-gazing or self-absorption but rather focus our energies on those who really need our help, our companionship, our encouragement. Let us practice Words and acts of kindness, of inclusion.

With Love and Blessings,

Fr Damian