First Sunday of Lent 2023

Lent 1 2023

Let us consider these words from the Holy Father’s Lenten message for 2023:  “Lent is a time of grace to the extent that we listen to him [God] as he speaks to us.” Pope Francis says God speaks to us in Scripture and through other people, especially those in need.

In the Gospel reading this week, we see Jesus being led into the desert. There, he fasted and prayed for 40 days and 40 nights. It may be of some comfort for us to know that the Lord was tempted by the devil, just as we are.

But how did our Lord respond? He was alone and hungry, and Scripture says that each time the devil tempted him, Christ answered with God’s holy word. 

 

  • Christ’s response to the first temptation: “One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.”
  • Christ’s response to the second temptation: “Again it is written, You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”
  • Christ’s response to the third temptation: “The Lord your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve.”


With these words, the devil fled and angels ministered to Jesus. Our Lord says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and I give them eternal life.” May we listen carefully this Lent, and may we answer every challenge and temptation with God’s word.

Your friends at Catholic Cemeteries are with you in the desert this Lent – and through the deserts of life – as together we await the blessed hope!

 

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Lent 4 2024

Fourth Sunday of Lent 2024

When our sins cause us to sorrow, we will be comforted by remembering and accepting God’s love.