Bishop Leahy says ‘give hope’ this Lent as calls for prayers for Pope Francis’ health

BISHOP of Limerick Brendan Leahy has urged people to consider ‘giving hope’ and not just ‘giving up’ items this Lent.

Speaking ahead of the commencement of the 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins this Wednesday, ‘Ash Wednesday’, Bishop Leahy said that Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year of Hope this year is the perfect cue for our Lenten commitment.

“Lent is a season when Christians all over the world enter into a time of reflection, trying to grow closer to God and each other. What I would ask for this Lent, given it is the Jubilee Year of Hope, is that we use this period to focus on hope,” Bishop Leahy said.

“Many people traditionally use lent to give things up but perhaps this year we could commit to giving hope.

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“It’s a perfect time for hope as we step towards Easter, the ultimate sign of hope through the risen Christ. We also see so many signs of hope in nature as spring arrives. Nature is exploding into new life across Lent and it’s a true symbol of hope.

“We have an opportunity during this Lent, then, to search out hope, look for hope around us and be encouraged by it. And why not give hope? Can we do things for others across Lent that will truly make them feel valued? Just ask ourselves how can we be bearers of hope?”

Bishop Leahy also asked for the prayers of all for Pope Francis as his health challenges continue. “Pope Francis is himself a torch bearer of hope and despite his very frail condition has still been asking us all to pray for peace. That in itself is an incredible message of hope. So, we ourselves now hope and pray each day for his health, that he will continue to guide and inspire us to be the best we can be.”