By CISA
VATICAN CITY, FEBRUARY 27, 2025 (CISA) – Ahead of the 2025 Lenten season, which begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the Holy Father has released his annual Lenten message, emphasizing the theme: “Let us journey together in hope.” Pope Francis calls upon the faithful to embark on a pilgrimage of faith, reflecting on their spiritual journey, unity within the Church, and the hope found in Christ’s resurrection.
In his message, the Holy Father highlights three key aspects of this Lenten journey: walking in faith, walking together in unity, and walking in hope.
Walking in Faith: A Call to Conversion
Pope Francis reminds the faithful that Lent is a time to renew their faith through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He likens this journey to the biblical exodus, where the people of Israel, under God’s guidance, moved from slavery to freedom. The Pope invites individuals to examine their spiritual lives, asking themselves: “Am I really on a journey, or am I standing still, not moving, either immobilized by fear and hopelessness or reluctant to move out of my comfort zone?”
He encourages believers to consider the struggles of modern-day migrants and refugees, seeing in them a reflection of humanity’s collective journey toward God’s kingdom.
Walking Together: A Call to Synodality
The Pope stresses that the Church is a community called to walk together, following the spirit of synodality. He warns against self-absorption and urges the faithful to cultivate a spirit of cooperation, mutual listening, and inclusivity.
“Christians are called to walk at the side of others, and never as lone travelers,” he affirms.
He calls for reflection on how individuals contribute to unity in their families, workplaces, and faith communities. He urges bishops, priests, consecrated persons, and laity to foster collaboration and hospitality, ensuring that no one feels excluded from the Church’s mission.
Walking in Hope: Trusting in God’s Promise
Reflecting on the central message of the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis urges the faithful to embrace hope as a guiding force in their Lenten journey.
“Christ, my hope, has risen! He lives and reigns in glory. Death has been transformed into triumph, and the faith and great hope of Christians rest in this: the resurrection of Christ!” he proclaims.
He invites believers to trust in God’s forgiveness, resist the illusion of self-sufficiency, and commit to justice, fraternity, and care for creation.
A Season of Renewal
As the Church prepares to journey through Lent, Pope Francis reminds Christians that hope is the “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.” He echoes the words of Saint Teresa of Avila: “Hope, O my soul, hope. You know neither the day nor the hour.”
