(Vatican News) Pope Francis on Tuesday released his message for the 2018 liturgical season of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, 14 February. The theme of this year’s message is: ‘Because of the increase of iniquity, the love of many will grow cold’ (Mt 24:12). This is the full text of the Pope’s Lenten message:
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR LENT 2018
“24 Hours for the Lord” initiative
"One such moment of grace will be, again this year, the “24 Hours for the Lord” initiative, which invites the entire Church community to celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation in the context of Eucharistic adoration. In 2018, inspired by the words of Psalm 130:4, “With you is forgiveness”, this will take place from Friday, 9 March to Saturday, 10 March. In each diocese, at least one church will remain open for twenty-four consecutive hours, offering an opportunity for both Eucharistic adoration and sacramental confession." (Pope Francis’ message)