Lent

Dear St. Alphonsus family,

Lent is a period of fasting and repentance traditionally observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations in preparation for Easter. The length of the Lenten fast is 40 days. During this time, participants eat sparingly, or simply give up a particular food or habit. I offer the following for your consideration so that Lent does not turn out to be a sad time, but a thankful time of preparation. Lent is not only about Fasting, but also Feasting!

Fast from judging others…Feast on Christ dwelling in them.

Fast from differences……. Feast on what people share in common.

Fast from what looks like darkness… Feast on hope and light around you.

Fast from words that tear down….Feast on words of encouragement.

Fast from discontent……………..Feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger…………………… Feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism……………. Feast on optimism.

Fast from complaining………….. Feast on appreciation.

Fast from dwelling on the negative…. Feast on what is positive.

Fast from suspicion…………….. Feast on truth.

Fast from bitterness……………. Feast on forgiveness.

Fast from selfishness………….. Feast on compassion for others.

Fast from problems that overwhelm… Feast on prayer.

Fr. Ed Vella, C.Ss.R.