ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ:

            The sacred season of Lent begins with a simple yet profound gesture. The imposition of ashes in the form of a cross on the forehead of the faithful is a gesture which reminds us of our mortality. This reminder of our death also motivates us to repentance. From recollection of our individual death, we are invited to new life, turning from sin and embracing the Gospel of Christ.

            In so many ways, it appears that the darkness of sin reigns in our world. The seeming prevalence of violence, scandal, selfishness and apathy weighs heavily on humanity. These painful realities are part of what Pope John Paul II has called “a culture of death.” While the season of Lent begins with a significant reminder of death, the entire season of Lent prepares us to enter into new life with Christ. Through prayer, fasting, almsgiving and works of charity, we all confront the worldly culture of death, as well as our own weaknesses, with an attitude that we draw life from Christ, who by His sacrifice has overcome the world and conquered death.

            I invite all of the faithful during this wondrous period of discipline, fasting, abstinence and prayer, to seek the face of Christ in His fasting, as well as in His Passion and Death. Through participation in daily Mass, reflection on the Way of the Cross, taking the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Penance, and observing the laws of the Church concerning fasting and abstinence, this Lent will be a fruitful and grace-filled period.

            In a particular way, I extend to our catechumens my greetings and support. These days of Lent have great impact on their formation and preparation for baptism. It is the duty of all the faithful to encourage our brothers and sisters preparing for baptism through good example and prayerful support.

            As we unite ourselves sacramentally and prayerfully with the Passion and Death of Christ, I pray that we shall enter into a new life with Christ as we awaken to the Light of His Resurrection.

                                                                        Sincerely in Christ,

                                                                        Cardinal Justin Rigali

                                                                        Archbishop of Philadelphia