03/02/2022 – Ash Wednesday beginning of lent

Today is both Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, and the First Wednesday dedicated to St Joseph. Lent is a time of special grace. By prayer, fasting and almsgiving we seek that grace. Pope Pius XII, whose birthday is today, offers us some wise guidance for the forty days ahead.

“To desire grace without recourse to the Virgin Mother is to desire to fly without wings.”

We seek the special graces of Lent not just for ourselves but for our families.

Pope Pius XII has a recommendation.

“There is no surer means of calling down God’s blessing upon the family than the daily recitation of the Rosary.”

And finally the Grace of Lent must not just be sought for ourselves and our family but also for the Church and the whole world. To this Pope Pius XII assures us:

“We put great confidence in the Holy Rosary for the healing of evils that afflict our times.”

Take up the Rosary with new ardour this Lent!

P.S. There will be Mens’ Rosaries of Reparation happening around the country this coming Saturday. Also praying for peace in Ukraine and our troubled world.

Abbeyleix – 1pm at Market Square

Cork – 2pm at the Grand Parade

Dublin – 2pm at North Earl St (by the Spire)

Kilkenny – 1pm at St James’ Green (next to the Cathedral)

Knock – 1pm at the Plaza

Magherafelt – 1pm in the Town Centre/Traffic Island

Tralee – 1pm at the Square