VATICAN CITY (SE): As the world continues to pray for Pope Francis, who remains hospitalised for a second week, the Holy See Press Office released his annual Lenten message, calling on the faithful to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage under the theme, “Let us journey together in hope.” In his message, signed on February 6, the Memorial of St Paul Miki and Companions, martyrs, the Holy Father reflects on the significance of Lent in the context of the Jubilee Year and calls on believers to embrace conversion through three key aspects: journeying in faith, journeying together in community, and journeying in hope.
Call to pilgrimage and self-examination
Pope Francis opens his message by emphasising Lent as a time of spiritual pilgrimage, a season of renewal and preparation to celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death at Easter. Quoting St. Paul’s triumphant words, “Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” [1 Corinthians 15:54-55], the pope underscores the heart of the Christian faith—Jesus Christ, crucified and risen.
Reflecting on the Jubilee motto, “Pilgrims of Hope,” Pope Francis draws a parallel between the Lenten journey and the biblical Exodus of Israel from slavery to the Promised Land. This historic journey, he notes, was both a test of faith and an act of divine guidance, reminding the faithful that they too are called to walk the path of transformation.
The pope encourages each person to examine their own life and ask critical questions: “Am I truly on a journey of faith, or am I immobilised by fear and hopelessness? Am I seeking to move beyond sin and embrace a life of dignity?” He invites believers to engage in a meaningful Lenten practice—comparing their lives with those of migrants and refugees.
Call to synodality and unity
The second focus of Pope Francis’ message is on the communal nature of the Christian journey, stressing that the Church is not a place for isolation but a community called to walk together in unity and mutual support. “Christians are called to walk at the side of others, never as lone travellers,” he writes, highlighting the importance of synodality—the concept of shared discernment and collaboration within the Church.
He warns against self-absorption, division, and exclusion, urging the faithful to reflect on whether they are truly welcoming in their families, workplaces, and parishes. He challenges clergy, consecrated persons, and laypeople alike to examine whether they are cooperating with one another in the service of God’s Kingdom. “Do we truly make others feel part of our community, or do we keep them at a distance?” he asks.
The pope calls on the Church to walk in love and patience, ensuring that no one is left behind. This Lenten season, he says, should serve as a time to deepen relationships, listen to one another, and resist the temptation of self-centeredness.
Call to trust in God’s promises
The final aspect of Pope Francis’ message is the call to hope. He reminds the faithful that hope is central to the Christian life and a defining theme of the Jubilee Year. Quoting Romans 5:5, “Hope does not disappoint,” he assures believers that God’s promise of eternal life is real and unwavering.
Pope Francis echoes the teachings of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who wrote in in the encyclical, Spe Salvi, that humanity longs for unconditional love—a love so strong that it overcomes even death and suffering. This love, Pope Francis affirms, is fully realised in Christ’s resurrection.
The pope challenges the faithful to reflect on their own trust in God’s mercy: “Do I truly believe that the Lord forgives my sins? Or do I act as though I must save myself? Do I live with the hope that inspires me to seek justice, fraternity, and care for our common home?”
Citing the words of St. Teresa of Avila, he encourages perseverance in faith: “Hope, O my soul, hope. You know neither the day nor the hour. Watch carefully, for everything passes quickly.” He reminds Christians that their hope is anchored in Christ, who calls the Church to pray for the salvation of all and to look forward to the ultimate union with Him in heaven.
A Marian blessing for the Lenten journey
Pope Francis concludes by invoking the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Mother of Hope, to accompany the faithful on their Lenten journey.
His message, released on February 25 from St. John Lateran, serves as a spiritual roadmap for Lent, urging believers to reflect, repent, and journey together toward the joy of Easter.
As Catholics worldwide embark on this sacred season, the pope’s words serve as a powerful reminder: Lent is not just a time of sacrifice, but a pilgrimage of faith, unity, and unwavering hope in God’s promises.
