THE CHRIST CHILD DAY OF RECOLLECTION

          In a Time of Uncertainty,  

Living Out The Jubilee Year of Hope

Ash Wednesday is March 5, which means that Lent is here! Some people love the approach of this holy season, a time for self-reflection and improvement; a time for change and a deeper spiritual investment. Other people dread the idea of Lent with fasting, facing personal weakness and sin, and practices of self-denial.   

But, by following our Lord’s example, we find that the journey of self-discovery is not a self-indulgent act but one of love, towards ourselves and our Creator. It is an act of humility where we come face to face with the ugly truths and weaknesses in our lives and give them over to God. It is a fruitful action, empowering us with the confidence and vision to carry out the wonderful life plan that God has given to us. Whether Lent is your favorite season or one that you'd just as soon ignore, you know that it is an important observance in the liturgical calendar. Lent is a time to focus on the deepest mysteries of our faith and try to connect more personally to those spiritual truths.

A Time of Grace: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving 

Lent’s three pillars are prayer, fasting and almsgiving–meaning that we’re called to do more than just abstain from a particular food or activity. It involves not only what we’re willing to give up, but what we’re willing to take on.

When we hunger–whether it be for food, technology, comfort–it can be a reminder that Jesus is the bread of life.   

When we think about what to give up for Lent, we ought to also think about what sort of commitment to prayer and ability to be charitable that we can hold ourselves.

When we sacrifice things that this world tells us we need, it can remind us that only God can truly satisfy our spiritual hunger.                                                                                             

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”               John 6:35

Above all, Lent is a season of grace—a time when you are invited to grow deeper in your faith. Would you like to find ways to relate to others more lovingly? Would you like to have a better understanding of Jesus' passion and death, and how these events affect your own spiritual journey? Do you struggle with suffering and wonder where God is in those moments of despair? Do you wish you could pray more effectively? Do you wish that you could just enjoy the simple gifts in life and find time to be happy? 

Thursday April 10, 2025

Fr. Robert Kline Social Center/St. John Vianney

7575 Bellflower Rd. Mentor, OH 44060

8:30-2:30pm

Continental Breakfast● Presentation ● Luncheon ● Mass