On Sunday it was the first Sunday of Lent. In Pope Francis' message for Lent 2021, the Pope asks people to “experience Lent with love,” which “rejoices in seeing others grow.”

 “To experience Lent with love means caring for those who suffer or feel abandoned and fearful because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In these days of deep uncertainty about the future, let us keep in mind the Lord’s word to his Servant, ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you’ (Isaiah 43:1). 

The Pope emphasized that even a small amount of almsgiving when offered with “joy and simplicity” can multiply, as did “the loaves blessed, broken and given by Jesus to the disciples to distribute to the crowd.” 

At St Michael’s our almsgiving effort this Lent will focus on fundraising for the Catholic Church agency, Caritas, and their annual appeal we all know as Project Compassion.

 “Love is a gift that gives meaning to our lives. It enables us to view those in need as members of our own family, as friends, brothers, or sisters. A small amount, if given with love, never ends, but becomes a source of life and happiness,” the Pope said.

Let us approach this season of Lent with Love and compassion.

God Bless

Mrs Belinda Hughes - Principal