Dear Beloved Basic Education Community!
The journey of Lent in 2024 is a moment to reflect on the significance of this season in our lives. Lent is a sacred period of 40 days, a time of spiritual preparation, self-examination, and repentance leading up to Easter. It is an opportunity for us to draw closer to God, to deepen our faith, and to cultivate a spirit of humility and self-discipline.
During this season, let us commit ourselves to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Our prayers signifies the genuine expression of our hearts, seeking guidance, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of purpose. In fasting,we detach ourselves from worldly distractions and turn our focus towards the divine. And in almsgiving, let us embody the love and compassion that Christ has shown us. In the words of Pope Francis “prayer, almsgiving, and fasting are not three unrelated acts, but a single movement of openness and self-emptying” (Pope Francis, Lenten Message 2024).
Lent is not merely a time of giving up, but also a time of taking up. The Pope reminds us, “We can become attached to money, to certain projects, ideas or goals, to our position, to a tradition, even to certain individuals. Instead of making us move forward, they paralyze us.” Take up the challenge to be more intentional in your relationship with God and others. Embrace the opportunity for growth and transformation. Let us open our hearts to the grace of God, allowing it to penetrate the depths of our being and shape us into the people He desires us to be.
As we journey through Lent together, may our hearts be filled with hope, and may the light of Easter shine brightly on the horizon. Let us encourage one another, support one another, and walk hand in hand towards the joy of resurrection.
May this Lenten season be a time of profound spiritual renewal, drawing us closer to God and each other. May we emerge from this season with a deeper understanding of our faith, a stronger connection to our Creator, and a greater capacity to love and serve those around us.
Blessings and peace to you all during this sacred season of Lent.
Fr. Alfonso A. Araceli, SVD
Director, Basic Education Department