Ash Wednesday 2012
The time leading up to the season of Lent is to help us follow the example of the catechumens and public sinners of the early Church.  The Sundays that comprise Septuagesima take to heart all that was in the mind of these two groups of people.

After God told Noah of His regret for creating mankind because of their rebellion, and after He destroyed the world with the deluge, he sent the dove with an olive branch to make peace with humanity.  It is important to remember that God desires not our damnation, but our salvation.

Many people dislike the season of Lent because they are forced to see their true sinful nature.  When we see ourselves in this way it should spur us to a deep detestation and a humble confession of our sins.  This humility is the recognition of the truth about ourselves.

The principal works of penance are prayer, especially the Holy Mass and mental prayer, spiritual reading, and the gift of alms.  If we can overcome one habit of sin through these works, we have made great progress towards sanctity..

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