2026.03-15 4th Sunday of Lent

Dear Parishioners,

We have reached the mid-point of our Lenten journey. This week, I would like to briefly reflect on Pope Leo’s Lenten message.  The 2026 Message of Pope Leo XIV for Lent is titled “Listening and Fasting: Lent as a Time of Conversion.” This is the theme on which Fr. Dominic Borg, O.C.D., reflected upon during our Parish Lenten Mission this past week.   In his message, the Holy Father writes: “Lent is a time in which the Church, guided by a sense of maternal care, invites us to place the mystery of God back in the center of our lives, in order to find renewal in our faith and keep our hearts from being consumed by the anxieties and distractions of daily life.”

In today’s world, we are surrounded by noise—phones, news, social media, and constant activity. Because of this, we often hear many voices but rarely listen deeply. The Bible reminds us again and again that faith begins with listening. When God called young Samuel in the temple, Samuel responded with a simple prayer: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Fasting is closely connected with listening. When we fast, we intentionally let go of something—food, comfort, or distractions. This creates room in our hearts. The purpose of fasting is not punishment. It is freedom, freedom from attachments. 

Listening and fasting lead to the true purpose of Lent: Conversion. Conversion does not always mean dramatic change. Often, it happens quietly in small decisions: choosing patience over anger; offering forgiveness over resentment; helping someone rather than ignoring their needs. Each of these small choices turns our hearts a little more towards God. May our Lenten journeys be blessed with grace and peace.

Fr. Vijai, CSC ~ Pastor