Lent calls for a ‘conversion of heart’ – Cardinal Tagle

A conversion of heart — from envy, anger, pride, revenge, and ill will – is called for during Lent, as a person’s “significant contribution to the

world.”

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle said “Lent is an invitation for us to return to God, to repent for our sins. A conversion of heart must come from within a person to return to the loving arms of the Father.” He urged the faithful to unite themselves to the Lord by allowing His grace to pour in their hearts, to ask for forgiveness, and to turn away from their sinful ways.

Tagle reminded the faithful to continue praying, fasting and do charity work and to give primary importance to the Word of God and not devote time to meaningless and empty words.

“Sometimes, we pay attention to words that are meaningless and empty, words that are not from God but are given importance. We react and respond to words that are not from God. ‘Buti pa ‘yung mga walang katuturang salita, pinakikinggan at may tumutugon. Pero kapag salita ng Diyos, meron bang tumutugon? Meron bang interesado?” he asks.

The Word of God, the Cardinal stressed is the light that guides our path through our journey. “When we listen to the Word of God and allow it to change our hearts, it will help us to deepen and better understand our faith,” he said.

His Eminence also reminded the faithful to do works of charity sincerely and not just for show.

“A conversion of heart calls for us to stop being self-centered. As Jesus explained in the Gospel, there are those who do works of mercy merely for show, to grab attention, and to gain favor for themselves. ‘Look at me, I am donating, take my picture.’ Works of mercy and charity are done not exactly to help but for themselves to be noticed, to become famous, or to gain praise,” Tagle said. “When we look at the needy, do not think of them as a problem or someone who is a burden. Think of them as blessings, who need to be loved, cared for, and helped,” he added.

Joyous Sunday

Meanwhile, the Catholic Church, by tradition, celebrates the Fourth Sunday of Lent as a Sunday of joy and rejoicing. Also known as Laetare Sunday, from the first words of the Introit at mass today, “Laetare Jerusalem!” (Rejoice, O Jerusalem!), Eucharistic celebrations will highlight the nearness of the Resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday, which will be observed on April 16 this year.

With the theme “Hope and Rejoicing,” church hymns will speak of joy, hope, and consolation. Musical accompaniment, which has been silent during the preceding three Sundays, will be heard during the Mass, which will be celebrated like Gaudete Sunday during the Advent season. The Gloria will be sung while Church altars, which are usually sparingly decorated with flowers during Lent, will be adorned to signify joy and rejoicing.