Dear Sisters,

“I will give you a new heart, and put a new spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26)

As the season of Lent begins we are invited into this special time of grace once again. These six weeks are both familiar yet always new. Lent is not merely a season in the Church’s calendar but an opportunity for transformation and, as the prophet Ezekiel reminds us, that transformation is first of all God’s work.

In our Franciscan tradition, transformation begins with encounter. Francis was changed when he met Christ — in prayer, in the crucifix, and in the leper he once feared. What seemed bitter became sweet when he allowed love to touch his heart. His life was reshaped not by fear, but by grace.

This season of grace is about becoming more fully who God is calling us to be. Transformation is often quiet, unfolding in small acts of trust and daily fidelity. Lent invites us to simplicity of heart — perhaps to let go of something that burdens us, to forgive, to trust more deeply, or simply to rest in God’s presence. Poverty of spirit creates space for God to act.

Pope Leo’s Lenten message can give us some direction and food for thought as we open ourselves and respond to God’s call to conversion, to transformation. The Pope focused on an under-appreciated form of abstinence, namely, refraining from hurtful words. He said:
“Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgements, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves. Instead let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities.” In this way he said we will let our words of hatred “give way to words of hope and peace”.

Pope Leo reminds us here that when we refrain from slander and rash judgement, our words of negativity can give way to words of hope and peace. This is truly Franciscan. We are called to be instruments of peace — and peace often begins in the tone of our voice and the attitude of our heart.

As we walk this Lenten journey together across our communities and countries we are united in our Franciscan vocation and charism. The quiet prayer of our elderly sisters, the commitment of those in ministry, the perseverance of those carrying responsibility, the sacrifices we make, are all part of our shared journey of conversion and renewal. As we journey towards Easter, may we do so with confidence. God’s grace accompanies us. His love sustains us. His presence never leaves us.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May He show you His face and be merciful to you.
May He turn His countenance toward you and give you peace.

And may we walk this Lenten journey in the spirit of Saint Francis — with simplicity, humility and joy.

Sister Anne Moore, fmsj

Congregational Leader