Spiritual Wellness Check: Bishop’s Lenten Message on Health of Spirit

During the first day of Lent, Bishop John delivered a powerful message on the importance of a spiritual wellness check, akin to regular health check-ups in medicine.

He emphasized the need to address spiritual diseases, particularly sins, which damage the grace within one’s heart and harm relationships with God, oneself, and others. Confession and seeking forgiveness were highlighted as essential steps for spiritual health.

As Lent commences, the Bishop focused on three key tools for spiritual growth: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Prayer was described not just as reciting prayers, but as actively listening to the Lord‘s messages and embracing His presence in everyday life.

Fasting, traditionally observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, serves as a reminder of life’s blessings and encourages freedom from material possessions.

Almsgiving, an act of charity and love for one’s neighbor, was underscored as a practical way to demonstrate faith in action.

The Bishop acknowledged the challenges of these spiritual disciplines, comparing them to rigorous health regimens for the soul that require dedication and ongoing commitment.

He emphasized the transient nature of life, symbolized by the ashes received on Ash Wednesday as a reminder of mortality and the journey towards eternal life.

In closing, Bishop John invited the congregation to embrace Lent as a time to prioritize spiritual health and walk the path with Christ towards everlasting life.