To the Clergy, Religious, and Faithful of the Diocese of Aitape
“Return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.” (Joel 2:12)
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As we begin the holy season of Lent, I invite all of you to a sincere renewal of your baptismal commitment through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
The Three Pillars of Lent
Prayer
This Lent, I encourage every family in the diocese to gather for family prayer each evening. Read a passage from the Gospels together and share a moment of silence.
Fasting
Beyond fasting from food, consider fasting from:
- Gossip and harmful speech
- Excessive use of mobile phones
- Alcohol and betel nut (even partially)
- Anger and impatience
Almsgiving
Share what you have with those in need. Even small acts of generosity — sharing food with a neighbor, helping an elderly person, contributing to the parish — are pleasing to God.
Diocesan Lenten Program
- Ash Wednesday: Mass and distribution of ashes in all parishes
- Fridays of Lent: Stations of the Cross at 3:00 PM
- Weekly: Parish Lenten reflection groups using diocesan materials
- Holy Week: Full celebration of the Sacred Triduum in all parishes
Reconciliation
I urge all parishioners to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Lent. Priests will be available for confessions every Saturday afternoon and by appointment.
May this Lent be a time of genuine conversion and spiritual renewal for our entire diocese.
Your servant in Christ,
✝ Siby Mathew, HGN Bishop of Aitape