The archbishop of Manila urges the faithful to "leave behind unnecessary bags and baggage on our Lenten journey with Jesus,” adding that “we start preparing to journey with Jesus to Jerusalem where He will show His love for God the Father and for us”.
Manila (AsiaNews) – Card Luis Antonio G. Tagle (pictured), metropolitan archbishop of Manila and president of Caritas Internationalis, called on the faithful who are about to enter the period of Lent to travel light, like Jesus did on his way to Jerusalem.
In his message for Ash Wednesday, the cardinal said that "almsgiving, fasting and prayer" are the steps to follow on the path to Easter.
"Today, the first day of Lent, we start preparing to journey with Jesus to Jerusalem where He will show His love for God the Father and for us until the end. It is difficult to travel with heavy bags and baggage. Like Jesus, let us travel light."
To this end, the cardinal urges Catholics to "share what we have with the poor through acts of justice and charity called almsgiving.”
"Let us take care of our health, our hungry neighbors and creation by restraining our appetite through fasting. Let us cast on the Lord our burdens in the spirit of faith and hope through prayer.
“Almsgiving, fasting and prayer will help us leave behind unnecessary bags and baggage on our Lenten journey with Jesus. Our Mother Mary will accompany us.