Spirituality
Readings of the holy Mass – Second Sunday of Lent
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with the resources below from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
God responds to sin with a plan for mercy and love
In his commentary for the readings on the Second Sunday of Lent, Msgr. Joseph Prior looks at God’s unfolding plan for redemption through the covenant with Abraham, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus.
Giving ‘alms,’ and other acts of charity, during Lent
The Lenten practice of almsgiving is a sacrifice our own comfort and desires for the good of others. Learn more about the roots and practical ways of charity -- gifts not only of our money but our time and talents as well.
Our responsibility to charity requires a self-sacrifice
It is the height of mercy to give our goods for the sake of others, writes Paul Senz. Almsgiving is not just about putting a few dollars into the donation basket. It is about giving of what we have -- and giving of ourselves.
New ways to give alms
Almsgiving has its roots in a Greek term meaning "mercy," and if we adopt some practical suggestions -- like donating the money we would spend on mocha lattes -- it can help us grow in mercy and justice this Lent.
Almsgiving: Give in a way ‘that is pleasing to God’
Throughout Scripture, we find ample evidence of God calling us to give alms to the poor. During the Lenten season we are called to be mindful of the poor in our midst and to respond generously.
Falling totally into God’s hands
Effie Caldarola likes to be in control, even during Lent, so she made goals and lists. But when laid up for a week with sickness, she had to surrender it all, on God's terms.
What do you ‘give up’ on meatless Fridays if you’re already a vegan?
Father Ken Doyle digs into this juicy question about sacrifices during Lent when not eating meat is no sacrifice at all. He also advises a digital worker about a truthfulness in business and in life.
The cross and divine mercy of Jesus
We know what the cross represents, but sometimes we can see it so often that we forget its meaning, writes Maria-Pia Negro Chin. It is a call to remember Christ's sacrifice and his loving mercy for each of us.
Fasting: It’s about more than food
Fasting from something is not an end in itself. Fasting points beyond itself. It focuses our attention on the reality of God's presence here and now. Learn more about the traditional Lenten practice in this series.