Journey With Pope Francis This Lent

“Once again Lent comes to make its prophetic appeal, to remind us that it is possible to create something new within ourselves and around us, simply because God is faithful, always faithful, for he cannot deny himself, he continues to be rich in goodness and mercy, and he is always ready to forgive and start afresh. With this filial confidence, let us set out on the journey!”

Pope Francis, Message for Lent 2021

Across these 40 days, we have a chance to reflect and be renewed, as we mark the holy season of Lent and prepare for Easter.

How can we make this Lent matter? The church invites us to pray, fast and give alms — and so we offer three humble suggestions to help make the most of this time.

Pray

This year, it is our privilege to offer a CNEWA exclusive: daily reflections for Lent from Pope Francis, based on the Scripture readings for each day and incorporating material from the Holy Father’s homilies, audiences and writings. These inspiring words of Pope Francis are our gift to you, to help give focus and peace during this season.    

We are excited to be able to offer these reflections in three formats:

• A small paperback booklet that you can carry with you
• A PDF that you can download, to read on your tablet or phone
• A daily email that will be delivered to your inbox every morning

Fill out the form below to let us know which format(s) you prefer.

Fast

Fasting is more than just skipping a meal. Pope Francis has said “True fasting is helping others, but always with a smile.” During a homily in 2018, the pope asked, “Does my fasting help others? May the Lord give us this grace.” He suggested looking for opportunities to pray more, sacrifice more and seeking forgiveness from God for our sins.

Give alms

Giving to the poor and those in need is one of the most important practices of Lent — and one we at CNEWA carry close to our hearts. Our world is full of men, women and children who are suffering, hungry, desperate — and CNEWA’s mission is to reassure them of their dignity and help them know they are loved by God. This Lent, you can help change their lives — and answer the call to give in a spirit of charity to those who have nothing. A little sacrifice during this season can make a profound difference.  When you give alms to CNEWA, you are giving hope!  

Know that as you embark on your Lenten journey, we are walking with you — and joining our prayers with yours and those of Pope Francis, who in his Easter messages last year wrote, “Every moment of our lives is a time for believing, hoping and loving.”

May that belief, hope and love journey with you this season and always!