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 Joyful? Yes! Because we are making our way to Passover, to the “Feast of Feasts”, to Easter, to Resurrection!
But Lent is also a time of “ritual lamentations”, a time when we acknowledge the brokenness and pain in our own lives, and in the world in which we live.
Terrorism and war rage on in the Middle East, Africa, South America, Indonesia and many other places.
Poverty, hunger and homelessness exist not only in the Third World, but in our own cities and towns and even within our parish, in view of our church doors here in Ogle Street.
Racism, sexism and, shockingly, crimes against children, can be found in the Church, our Church the Catholic Church. Lent allows us to articulate the grief and anger we feel, and to seek repentance, healing and forgiveness, by turning to Christ and doing works of charity, justice and penance.
Lenten prayer and action is the work of the whole community, your work and mine, as we face the many demons in our own lives, in the Church, in our culture and in our society.
If we keep Lent well, then Lent will keep – save – us.
“Cor Ad Cor Loquitor” – “Heart Speaks to Heart” – this is the beautiful motto of Cardinal John Henry Newman, who was born on this day, 21st February 2010, in 1801, here in the City of London.
Pope Benedict will visit this country in September. Details and venues have yet been finalised but, without doubt, the highlight of his visit will be the Beatification of Cardinal Newman.
Mass of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Marriage will be celebrated on the 22nd May 2010 in Westminster Cathedral. Archbishop Vincent extends a welcome to all couples who this year celebrate their 10th, 25th, 50th and 60th or longer wedding anniversaries. If you are one of these couples, please give your names to Father Alan and a personal invitation will follow.
Turn Wine into Water this Lent! How? Take one of the special envelopes at the back of the church and find out! Friday of this week is Lent Fast Day. Can we do less?
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