Brothers and Sisters, we have entered into Passiontide, the last two weeks of Lent. The tone of the readings becomes more somber; the Church is narrowing Her focus on the Passion and death of our Lord.
Many churches will veil crosses and statues for this Fifth Sunday of Lent. While it is an optional practice in Diocese of the United States, many Pastors maintain this custom, which turns our focus to the essential thing at hand, Christ's redemptive work.
Passiontide is a season within the penitential season of Lent meant to help the faithful focus on Jesus's passion, for journeying in these last days of Lent with our Lord. May this time also help us to nurture within our hearts sorrow for our sins.
On this Fifth Sunday of Lent, let our hearts rest in the good news. Passiontide does not have the last say, and this somber period of preparation will soon give way to rejoicing in the beauty of Christ's resurrection. #livinglent2