t’s a journey of prayer and repentance, designed to bring us closer to God, in readiness for the glorious celebration of Easter.

For most people, the first question is: “What am I going to give up for Lent?” Although it’s traditional to give up certain foods or drink in remembrance of our Lord’s 40-day fast, we need to go a little deeper to reap the full benefits of the Lenten season.

What about giving up a bad habit – like complaining – and replacing it with gratitude for the many blessings in your life? Or giving up distractions like TV or social media, in order to spend 15 minutes of quiet time in prayer or reading the bible.

During this Jubilee Year of Hope we are also called to be ‘pilgrims of hope’. Lent is a time to not only renew our own faith, but to share our hope and belief with others. Beyond giving something up, think also about giving something away to someone in need – shining a ray of hope into the hearts of those who are suffering, poor, homeless or hungry.

As a supporter of the Zulu Missions, you know that many Mission people face real hardship and hunger every day. Your donation – made online now – has the power to ease their suffering through the Church’s many outreach programmes.

When you make your Lenten offering, please also let us know your special intentions for inclusion in one of our Masses for Mission friends.

Together, we can help make this season of Lent a time of renewed hope for all.

May God bless you and give you all the graces you need to make this a sacred time for Our Lord, His Church and your neighbour.