In latest newsletter, Newark archbishop says 'Lent a time of hope, renewal'

Cardinal Joseph Tobin has recently issued his latest newsletter, highlighting the Lenten season. He is the high-ranking Catholic leader of the Archdiocese of Newark.

The Newark archbishop reportedly said that the Lenten season brings hope and rebirth to the faithful.

As reported, the Church officially began the 40-day observance on Ash Wednesday, March 2. The season will then conclude on Thursday, April 14.

Cardinal's 2022 Lenten Message

As per the newsletter, Cardinal Tobin relayed a message to the Newark Catholic Christians.

He emphasized that the season will give people an opportunity to renew themselves. He also reportedly said that Lent will restore hope to them.

The Archdiocesan leader asserted that Catholics undergo a 40-day journey during this season.

He added that the faithful walk in the journey traversing the "darkness of sin and death." They desire to reach the light of Jesus Christ that reportedly shines the brightest at Easter.

"We make this journey each year with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit," the cardinal stated.

Cardinal Joseph also highlighted the significance of Lent this year amid these trying times. He pointed out that the 2022 Lent arrives at this moment when people experience worries and anxieties.

The issues that the world faces today reportedly caused this weariness and disillusions. These include the ongoing pandemic, economic disparities, as well as political and social conflicts.

Thus, the Newark archbishop believes that the season is a "favorable time" for everyone. He noted that through Lent, they may restore their spirits and rekindle the hope for the future.

"Especially now, we are prone to weariness and discouragement," Cardinal Tobin stressed. "And we run the risk of losing hope in the presence and power of God."

Moreover, the cardinal called on people to grab this chance and immerse fully in the Spirit-filled season.

Invitation For Prayer, Fasting, And Abstinence

According to the newsletter, Cardinal Tobin invited Catholics to join the Lenten season celebration.

The Newark archbishop urged the faithful to take part in praying to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit will reportedly provide guidance as people embark on this Lenten journey.

Aside from hope, he said that the season will teach patience and perseverance to the Catholics.

Furthermore, Cardinal Joseph also called on people to do fasting and abstinence. These forms of spiritual disciplines reportedly help them as they prepare for Easter.

People may revitalize their minds and hearts this Lenten season through prayer and fasting. Accordingly, they may find life's meaning through the act of kindness, Cardinal Tobin further stated.

Apart from that, he also urged Catholics to invoke the intercessions of Mary and the other saints.

About Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark

Based on its website, the Archdiocese is a Catholic community at 171 Clifton Avenue in Newark, New Jersey. It reportedly consists of Catholic Christians who believe in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

The Archdiocese strives to assist the faithful in rediscovering their life's purpose and meaning.

In addition, it seeks to proclaim and evangelize the teachings of God to all people. It also aims to establish faith communities across the world.