by Weena Kowitwanij

The bishops echo the message of Benedict XVI, translated into local dialects, and call the faithful to attend Mass, receive communion, fasting and sacrifice. The preparation for Easter is an occasion to witness the faith and serve others, sharing good times and the difficult ones.

Bangkok (AsiaNews) - Msgr. Philip Banchong Chaiyara's Lenten message to the faithful of Ubon Ratchathani (in the north-east of Thailand) focuses on the words of Benedict XVI. The prelate emphasizes the pope's invitation to reflect and rekindle "our spirituality" to be able to "bear witness to our faith with strength" in the contemporary world. Within 40 days of penance and prayer, in preparation for Easter resurrection, believers are invited to participate in Mass, receive communion, prayer, fasting, sacrifice and banish selfishness, by sharing with others.

Msgr. Banchong Chaiyara, president of the Episcopal Commission for Social Services (ECSW), also illustrated the "meaning of the Epistle to the Hebrews (10:24)," in which the faithful are exhorted to "understand the importance of prayer, mutual support and fasting "inspired by the Gospel and the Sacraments. "Penance - writes the bishop - is a sign of conversion and a return to God and the Church."

During Lent, the bishop emeritus of Udon Thani, Msgr. Geogre Yod Phimphisan recalls the episode of the conversion of St. Paul, that "invites us to become 'an angel of Jesus Christ' in helping others to be reconciled with God." The prelate said that every Christian is part of the universal Church, and should become a "sower of peace."

All parishes have distributed a summary of the Lenten Message of Benedict XVI, with translations into local dialects. In some churches, during the homily, parish priests have read some of the most significant passages. "The Lenten season is an opportunity for all," says Fr. Peter Prasert Takawej, chaplain of the Catholic Business Executive Group (Cbeg) "to change our hearts, behavior, and help the needy."

• Thailand
• lent
• bishops
• letter
• message
• benedict
• xvi
• conversion