Pastor's Reflection - February 15, 2026

Prepare for Lent

As we prepare for Lent, the Lord invites us to release what robs us of true happiness and to turn our gaze more fully to the abundant life he offers. The Church gives us three simple pillars to shape that journey: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Below are brief reflections and practical ways to live each one this season.

Prayer is the invitation to deepen our relationship with God.

Reflection: Prayer opens our hearts to God’s grace. In Lent, we pray with intention: to listen, to repent, and to be renewed.

Practical ideas: Add 10–20 minutes of Scripture or examen each morning, attend an extra weekday Mass or Stations of the Cross, pray for specific parish intentions, or join a Lenten small group for mutual support.

Fasting is the invitation to simplify our lives to make room for God and neighbor.

Reflection: Fasting helps us reject excess, grow in self‑discipline, and stand in solidarity with those who suffer. It frees time, attention, and resources for what truly matters.

Practical ideas: Observe Ash Wednesday and Good Friday; give up a habitual comfort (social media, sweets, TV); make one weekday meal simple and use that time for prayer; redirect money saved to charity.

Almsgiving is the invitation to share what we have with mercy.

Reflection: Almsgiving makes our love concrete. It reminds us that our gifts are meant to be shared and that generosity heals both giver and receiver.

Practical ideas: Give to the Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl program or a local charity, volunteer at a food pantry or shelter, perform weekly acts of neighborly service, or start a family giving jar to present at Easter.

A simple weekly plan: 15 minutes of prayer daily, one day of simplified eating, and one concrete act of charity.

May this Lent lead us to greater freedom, deeper communion, and a heart enlarged by mercy as we prepare to celebrate Easter.

In Christ,

Fr. James Northrop, Pastor