During the Lenten season, we traditionally intensify our focus on living the three spiritual practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. These practices are meant to purify us of our tendency towards selfishness as well as to help us grow in our love for God and neighbor.
At times, however, we might struggle with our Lenten penances and we might even wonder if our Lenten practices are really bearing fruit in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. This is why it is helpful to be sure that we make concrete acts of charity during this holy season.
One effective way to practice almsgiving (a concrete act of charity) during Lent is to give the Catholic Charity Appeal. While making a sincere effort to live the spirit of the Lenten season, you’ll also have the knowledge that your almsgiving is making an impact.
Giving to the Catholic Charity appeal is a way to live the gospel message. Jesus said, “Whatever you do for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” The Catholic Charity Appeal provides support to the homeless and the hungry, the immigrant and the refugee, the young and the old.
During this Year of Mercy Pope Francis has invited us to renew our commitment to live the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. Lent is a time to examine ourselves to be sure we are responding to that call, and making a gift to the Catholic Charity Appeal is a way to live it.
