Cardinal Tobin: God walks with us, Pilgrims of Hope

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we enter into this holy season of Lent, the image of a spiritual journey is prominent in the Scripture readings and in the penitential practices of this liturgical season. Especially during this Jubilee Year, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” we are conscious that we are moving together as a family of faith and that we have a common destination—our heavenly homeland.

This year, our Lenten pilgrimage takes place as we are confronted with the reality of millions of our sisters and brothers who are far from their homelands and whose future is uncertain at best. Pope Francis, who from the start of his pontificate has been a tireless, outspoken advocate for migrants, refugees, and displaced people, likens their situation to the Exodus of the people of Israel in the time of Moses (see selection below).

As the Holy Father observes:

Migrants often flee from oppression, abuse, insecurity, discrimination, and lack of opportunities for development. Similar to the Jews in the desert, migrants encounter many obstacles in their path: they are tried by thirst and hunger; they are exhausted by toil and disease; they are tempted by despair.

During Lent especially, the call to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving gives us opportunities to be one in heart and mind with those who are suffering from the fear and anxiety of this chaotic time. As fellow pilgrims, we must pray for one another, and especially for our migrant sisters and brothers. We should fast and thereby deny ourselves things that so many who are poor struggle to obtain for themselves and their families. And we should give generously to the charitable organizations that assist individuals and families who have had to flee from their native lands.

Lent reminds us that we are never alone on our life’s journey. God walks with us always—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. So do our Blessed Mother Mary and all the saints. We are all members of God’s family, and the struggles and difficulties of other family members are shared by all of us.

Continue reading Cardinal Tobin’s latest newsletter.