Lent 2016
Lent lessons from St. Francis
This Lent, let's try to imitate the goodness and virtue of St. Francis of Assisi, with a focus on creation. Nature provided an entree for Francis into a life based on the Gospel and other teachings of Scripture.
The presence of God in all creation
In a world beset with serious environmental issues, St. Francis serves as a model for living simply, with respect for God's gifts and creatures. Lenten sacrifice is not about giving up but giving over our life to God's will.
Journey through Lent with CatholicPhilly.com
UPDATED -- Our package of resources, devotions and other aids to prayer, fasting and charitable giving aims to deepen your Lenten pilgrimage with the church throughout these 40 days.
Ashes: An urgent call for our souls
Although church attendance numbers are high on Ash Wednesday, it's not a holy day of obligation, explains Carolyn Woo. But it is an invitation to begin a journey to soften our hearts.
This Lent, put your ear to God’s heart
Mercy is the beating heart of the Gospel, notes Michelle Francl-Donnay. She finds the rhythm of mercy pulsing in the psalms and turns to them, as Jesus did, to provide solace and strength every day.
To share the good news, first step into your inner room of prayer
Chris Stefanik points to the great saints who changed the world, and says our journey to holiness must be first an interior one in prayer. He suggests a short prayer for someone every day of Lent, starting on Ash Wednesday.
Let this year be a time of pardon and peace for you
Seminarian Eric Banecker encourages everyone to take advantage of Christ’s gift of mercy by going to the sacrament of penance, even if it has been many years since going to confession. Follow our series on the Year of Mercy.
Ash Wednesday 2016
Archbishop Charles Chaput offers several creative ways of making this Lent, which begins this Wednesday, Feb. 10, a time of fruitful personal conversion. He suggests the sacrament of penance and a daily period of silence, beyond the obvious things we "give up."
5 ways to a more meaningful Lent
In the practice of the Catholic faith, Lent is a time of heightened intensity. Learn about Lenten activities for Catholics during this holy season.
Almsgiving: Supporting the poor and needy in our community
See our list of some Catholic organizations that aid the needy both near to home and abroad.