Brothers and sisters,

Let us join together in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as we embark upon the Lenten journey towards the Cross.

May we always remember that, ultimately, we are walking towards His Resurrection!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Pope Benedict's Lenten Message
• The U.S. Catholic Bishops' Lent Web Page
• Important dates during Lent
• Important dates during Holy Week & Easter

Pope Benedict's Lenten Message (back to top)

"You were buried with Him in Baptism, in which you were also raised with Him."

Pope Benedict XVI's Lenten message for the 2011 season focuses on the true beauty of our Baptism, and the "burden" of materialism and self-centeredness. Take a moment to read his entire message to help guide you this Lenten season.

• Key Point: Baptism is more than a mere rite from the past. Rather, it is a living encounter with Christ, which informs our entire existence!
• Key Point: The traditional practices of fasting, almsgiving and prayer during Lent are "an expression of our commitment to conversion, and help to teach us how to live the love of Christ in an ever more radical way.

Read the Holy Father's words. Click here.

U.S. Bishops' "Lent Website" (back to top)

www.usccb.org/lent

Listen to radio retreats, podcasts and explore other resources! The site is organized into four central pillars.

Click on any of the following links to explore:

• What we believe
• What we celebrate
• How we live
• How we pray

Important days during Lent, Holy Week, & Easter (back to top)

March 9:
Ash Wednesday (the beginning of Lent)

Fridays
All Fridays in Lent (observe abstinence from meat)

April 17:
Palm Sunday (the final Sunday of Lent, and the beginning of Holy Week)

April 21:
Holy Thursday (the final day of Lent, remembering the Lord's Last Supper)

April 22:
Good Friday (commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ)

April 23:
Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil Masses may begin anytime after 8pm on Sat. evening)

April 24:
Easter Sunday

June 5:
Ascension of the Lord (culmination of the Easter season)

June 12:
Pentecost Sunday (the descent of the Holy Spirit)