Bishops of Sri Lanka: Lent, a time of deep reflection for every Christian
Colombo
(AsiaNews) - Lent, which begins today, Ash Wednesday, is "a time that
calls all Christians to a deeper reflection on their lives, not only to
repentance and reconciliation", says Msgr. Harold
Anthony Perera, chairman of the National Catholic Commission for Justice, Peace
and Human Development, introducing the Lenten message of the Bishops'
Conference of Sri Lanka (Cbcsl). The
theme chosen this year by the Sri Lankan bishops is "Unity through
reconciliation".
"Our
country - continues the bishop - needs a certain kind of unity, one that will lead
us to healing through genuine repentance. Unity does not mean a society free of
conflict, but rather a society where all people can enjoy freedom and experience
love and compassion. "
Quoting
a passage from the prophet Joel (2:13) " Rend your hearts, not your
garments, and return to the Lord, your God, For he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in
steadfast love, and relenting in punishment", Msgr. Perera
added: "rending our heart is certainly a difficult task, because human
nature is frail. However, its fruits are priceless and true repentance requires
it."
Finally,
the bishop exhorted the faithful: "Let us not confine ourselves to its
mere rituals. Let us build a close and deep relationship with Our Lord,
experience a deep change in our inner lives and dedicate ourselves to the
service of our brethren so that we could share with the Lord the real
experience of Easter. "
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