Pope Francis has described his vision of the Catholic Church as a field hospital in the middle of a terribly wounded world. The church herself is populated by wounded and sinful members, but by God’s grace she still serves as an instrument of healing and forgiving mercy. During Lent 2015, the Archdiocese of Chicago wants to bring the medicine of mercy not only to the Catholic faithful but also to anyone who stands in need of healing and forgiveness. How will we begin to do this? Across two days — Feb. 27-28 — the church in Chicago will offer special opportunities for the celebration of the sacrament of penance, for prayers of healing and for intercessory prayer for the gift of peace in our hearts, our families, our communities and our world. We will extend an invitation not only to Catholics but to all people of good will to join us in our churches. This effort is part of the final year of the Strategic Pastoral Plan — the Year of the Sacraments. Also part of this year is a month-by-month series of resources highlighting a particular sacrament each month. Resources include rituals for the commissioning and blessing of ministers, homily notes and opportunities for renewal. For more information visit www.archchicago.org/StrategicPastoralPlan/Sacraments.
Catholic Theological Union hosts novena for migrants, immigrants Nine bishops and archbishops from across the United States will lead prayers and reflections during a March 14-22 national novena for migrants and immigrants hosted by the Bernardin Center at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, including Cardinal Cupich on the final day.
Although pope is improving, he will not lead Ash Wednesday services While Pope Francis' condition has continued to improve, the Vatican announced that he will not lead his traditional Ash Wednesday services in Rome March 5.
Resources to enhance your Lenten journey Various resources are available to help Catholics delve more deeply into the spirituality of Lent, including those listed below: