In Canada, Ash Wednesday arrives in the midst of winter’s deep freeze. However, little by little the days grow longer and the softer colors in the evening sky speak to us of future spring days so long anticipated. This is the day when Christians throughout the world flock to the Ash Wednesday service where ashes are placed on foreheads as we hear the words, “Repent and believe in the Gospel”.Thus begins the sacred forty days of Lent where we concentrate on Jesus’ forgiveness, love and compassion as he lived among the people prior to the events that led to his passion, death and resurrection. We strive to imitate Jesus in his mercy and compassion as we, forgetful of self, perform our own acts of love for our neighbours. At the same time, we look forward to the joy of celebrating the resurrection feast of Easter in April’s springtime.
May we grow deeper into God as we walk in reflective joy and peace throughout these forty Lenten days.
Jean Moylan, CSJ