A Special Intention for Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is a Church holiday that occurs once a year, and it marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is the forty day period where we prepare for Easter through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. This means we spend extra time praying, give things up to remember Jesus' sacrifice for us, and give extra money to the poor. Lent is a season of contemplation and supplication (this means asking for forgiveness), and, call me crazy, but it's actually my favorite liturgical season. 

This year, Pope Francis has asked us to dedicate our fasts and pray in a special way for peace, most especially in Ukraine (see the map to the right). On the twenty-fourth of February, just six days ago, Russia invaded Ukraine and the citizens of Ukraine are under attack. It is very frightening for them, and we must pray hard so that no more lives are lost and so that we are not catapulted into a war with Russia. 

It is important to remember in all of this, however, that G'D is in control. Even when it seems as though everything is falling apart, He is watching out for us and protecting His people. And in exceptionally dark times, He sends messengers to relay His love to His people, such as Saint John Paul II during the Second World War. It is normal to be a little nervous, but I know that G'D has it all under control, and everything will turn out fine in the end. 

This beautiful Ash Wednesday, remember to keep the people of Ukraine in your prayers, as well as the people in the nations surrounding Ukraine, who are worried about being invaded as well. And if you find yourself worried, remember the words from the Book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament:

"be Strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them,

for it is the Lord, your g'd, who marches with you;

he will never fail you or forsake you."

- Deuteronomy 31:6

May G'D go with you!