Do you want to fast this Lent?
In the words of Pope Francis:
- Fast from Hurting Words and say Kind words.
- Fast from Sadness and be filled with Gratitude.
- Fast from Anger and be filled with Patience.
- Fast from Pessimism and be filled with Hope.
- Fast from Worries and Trust in God.
- Fast from Complaints and contemplate Simplicity.
- Fast from Pressures and be Prayerful.
- Fast from Bitterness and fill your heart with Joy.
- Fast from Selfishness and be Compassionate to others.
- Fast from Grudges and be Reconciled.
- Fast from Words and be Silent so you can listen.
“Do you want to fast this Lent?” asks Pope Francis, offering a modern take on the practice of fasting that transcends food.
His words encourage a deeper, more meaningful approach by letting go of negativity and embracing virtues that nourish the soul. Fast from hurtful words, replacing them with kindness. Let gratitude fill the space where sadness once lingered. Choose patience over anger, hope over pessimism, and trust over worry. Embrace simplicity over complaints, prayerfulness over pressures, and joy over bitterness. Be compassionate, let go of grudges, and seek reconciliation.
And perhaps most importantly, fast from words, allowing the gift of silence to bring clarity, reflection, and the opportunity to truly listen.
This Lenten fast is an invitation to cultivate a heart full of love, peace, and understanding.