AS CATHOLICS welcomed the liturgical season of Lent on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18., the faithful began acts of penance, such as fasting and abstaining from meat.
In a message for Lent, Pope Leo XIV advised Catholics to “refrain from words that offend and hurt our neighbor,” which is also a form of abstinence.
“Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgement, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves,” Pope Leo said in his message on Feb. 5.
Pope Leo said Catholics should instead speak with kindness and foster respect in their families, friends, work, social media and Christian communities.
The pope stressed that the practice of fasting should prepare the people to receive the word of God.
“Listening to the word in the liturgy teaches us to listen to the truth of reality. In the midst of the many voices present in our personal lives and in society, Sacred Scripture helps us to recognize and respond to the cry of those who are anguished and suffering,” Pope Leo said.
The pope also urged parishes, families and religious communities to journey together during Lent by listening to the cry of the poor and the earth, and fasting for repentance.
Pope Leo concluded by emphasizing that true conversion in Lent would only happen through humility and willingness to accept God’s grace. Alexandra Gabrielle C. Mansineros
