March 5, 2025
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of our Lenten journey (40 days).
Pope Francis’ 2025 Lenten message invites us to ‘journey together in hope’ which ties with the broader theme of the Jubilee Year – Pilgrims of Hope and the emphasis of community and synodality – that we walk together rather than in isolation.
You’re invited to continue to consider some other sentiments by Pope Francis on Lent:
- We are encouraged to reflect on our ‘inner lives’ and to think about areas in our life that we would like to see more growth and have a feeling of being refreshed at a deep level.
- We are encouraged to move out of our comfort zone and maybe, move more towards others in finding common ground.
- We are reminded the ‘spirit of life’ impels us not to remain self-absorbed, but to keep walking side by side with others. Reaching out to someone having a tough day? What would that be like for me?
- For those that believe in a loving merciful god – you may like to contemplate God’s Mercy in your life?
And, finally, we are invited to find ‘hope’ during these forty days of Lent. Sometimes Lent can inspire us to think about these things as well:
- What do I think about forgiveness?
- What to I think about relying on others more, and asking for help?
- How can I look after the things I love the most more during Lent (one being caring for our planet)?
Prayer
A pure heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew in me
(Psalm 51: 10)
Reflection
This reflection piece on Ash Wednesday has many questions for the reader.
You’re invited to notice if one of the questions resonates with you.
If so, you may like to reflect on it, and the meaning it has within your life.
