In his 2026 Lenten Message , the Bishop reminds us that Lent is a special season for spiritual renewal. It is a time to return to God with sincerity, change our hearts, and live more faithfully as Christians.
1. Lent Is a Time to Come Back to God
The Bishop explains that Lent is not just about giving up food or certain habits. It is about turning away from sin and turning back to God. God is loving and merciful, and He is always ready to forgive us if we truly repent.
In simple terms, Lent is like a spiritual reset. It is a chance to clean our hearts and start again.
2. Prayer, Fasting and Charity Are Important
The message highlights the three main practices of Lent:
- Prayer – Spend more time talking to God and listening to Him.
- Fasting – Learn self control by giving up something meaningful.
- Charity – Help the poor and those in need.
The Bishop reminds us that these should not be done just to impress people. They should come from a sincere heart .
Simply put, Lent teaches us to love God more and to love people more.
3. True Conversion Must Show in Our Actions
The Bishop stresses that real repentance must show in how we live. It is not enough to say sorry to God. We must change our behavior.
That means:
- Stop cheating
- Stop lying
- Stop corruption
- Forgive others
- Live honestly
Lent should make us better Christians in our homes, workplaces, and communities .
In everyday language, if Lent does not change how we treat people, then we have missed its purpose.
4. We Must Build a Better Society
The message also connects our spiritual life to our national life. The Bishop encourages Christians to help build a society that is just, peaceful, and honest.
Faith should influence how we vote, work, lead, and serve others .
In simple terms, being a good Christian also means being a good citizen.
5. Hope in Christ
Finally, the Bishop reminds us that Lent leads to Easter. It is a journey toward hope and new life. No matter how sinful or broken we are, Christ brings forgiveness and renewal .
Lent prepares us for that joy.
In One Simple Sentence
The Bishop is saying:
Use Lent seriously. Pray more, change your life, help others, and allow God to make you a better person and a better Christian.
If you would like, I can also turn this into:
- A short homily outline
- A parish bulletin summary
- A youth friendly version
- Or a catechetical teaching format for group instruction.
