Approaching Lent!

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Welcome to this week’s Bishop’s Blog!

We are about to begin the Holy Season of Lent. It is our way to the Resurrection of Christ. It begins, as you know so well, with the dramatic anointing of our foreheads with blessed ash, and the words, ‘Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.’I know the alternative words are also available, ‘Turn away from sin. Believe the Good News.’ Perhaps, given all the information we are given on the state of the world’s health those first words about dust are more appropriate. We are part of the creation. We are formed from the dust/slime of the earth. To give our attention to the creation is certainly an invitation to search for the Creator, and remain mindful of what that Creator can do with dust. As Lent approaches I look forward to celebrating the Rite of Election at the Cathedral on the first Saturday in Lent. It is such a joy to see and meet people from across the Diocese, people who have found Christ and are beginning their journey with Him. So many of us were Baptised as infants. We did not choose to enter the Church; we have our parents to thank for this blessing above all blessings. But these adults have decided to become Catholics. They bring something fresh and wholesome into our lives at a time when we need this refreshing. It is a joy to meet them and listen to their stories. I am grateful for those who helped them find their way to this moment. Lent can appear a rather forbidding time, but it brings spring into our soul. I pray it is a time of deepening your relationship with the Lord, especially if you are experiencing difficulties. He chose to enter the desert for you, and with love for us all. With His love our difficulties are changed into a sharing of His Cross and lead us to the Resurrection. Only remember, He loved us first. Let us love with His love.