“O lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones. Let me find you again.”
—Henri Nouwen
The season of Lent is here! Next to Christmas and Easter, there is no time when churches are more filled. There is something about this seasons that can touch the hearts and consciences of people who seldom go to church.
Lent is a time of reconciliation: God’s reconciliation with a wounded world. But, if we are honest, it is also a time for us to be reconciled with God again. It doesn’t mean that we have left the church or even sinned seriously. Hopefully not. But it is a time for us to come to the Lord in a sense of repentance for our failings—great or small. And that is why we have the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It gives us an opportunity to do something externally to reflect what is going on in our hearts.
Still, many questions surround this holy season. Watch the videos below to hear my responses to some important questions!
When should I wipe the ashes off my forehead?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the question: When should I wipe the ashes off my forehead?
Will people think I’m trying to be holy or pious if I leave them on all day?
✛ ✛ ✛
What does Lent mean?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the question:
What does the word Lent mean and why is it used during this season?
✛ ✛ ✛
What do you give up for Lent, Friar Jim?
Find out what Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst does for Lent and what
he thinks we should all be doing during this penitential time.
✛ ✛ ✛
Do people over 59 have to abstain from meat?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the question:
Do people over the age of 59 need to abstain from meat on Fridays?
✛ ✛ ✛
Should Sundays be included or excluded in our penitential practices?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the frequently asked Lenten question:
Should Sundays be included or excluded in our penitential practices?
✛ ✛ ✛
Why does Lent begin at different times each year?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the question:
Why does Lent begin different times each year?
✛ ✛ ✛
Why does Lent last 40 days?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers:
Why does Lent last 40 Days? What’s the significance of the number 40?
✛ ✛ ✛
What does Lent mean to you as a Franciscan?
Franciscan Father Jim Van Vurst answers the question:
What does Lent mean to you as a Franciscan?
Lenten Lenten Lenten