The Diocese of Springfield Each day is providing the following resources to help you grow deeper in your faith during these 40 day sof Lent. You will be able to:

• read Scripture readings for each day

• view a virtual Stations of the Cross

• read the Lenten guidelines for fasting and abstinence

• discover how your participation in Operation Rice Bowl benefits the poor all over the world

You will also find guides and suggestions for personal reflection and suggestions for enriching your relationships with the Lord and with others. We hope you will visit dio.org each day during the 40 days of Lent and that your visits will bring deeper meaning and discovery to your life as a disciple of the Lord.

Mark Your Calendar

Ash Wednesday – February 17, 2010
Rite of Election – February 21, 2010
Feast of St. Joseph – March 19, 2010
Chrism Mass – March 29, 2010, 6:30 p.m.
Easter Vigil – April 3, 2010

Helpful References

The annual observance of Lent is the special season for the ascent to the holy mountain of Easter. Through its twofold theme of repentance and baptism, the season of Lent disposes both the catechumens and the faithful to celebrate the paschal mystery. Catechumens are led to the sacraments of initiation by means of the rite of election, the scrutinies, and catechesis. The faithful, listening more intently to the word of God and devoting themselves to prayer, are prepared through a spirit of repentance to renew their baptismal promises (Ceremonial of Bishops, 249).

2010 Lenten Regulations

2010 Lenten Calendar

Lenten Message

Message from Pope Benedict XVI

Daily Scripture Readings, Prayers, and Reflections

Daily Prayers and Reflections for Each Day During Lent (USCCB)

Household Blessings and Prayers for Lent (USCCB)

Operation Rice Bowl

Once again in Lent 2010 our diocese will participate in Catholic Relief Service’s Operation Rice Bowl program. ORB has always emphasized the traditional Lenten disciplines of fasting, prayer and almsgiving. We rejoice that our efforts allow our diocese to assist those who hunger and thirst for nourishment of body and soul in their every day lives. May our spiritual fulfillment consist of our attentive prayer for justice in all parts of our world, on behalf of all people who struggle daily for justice and peace.

Visit the Mission's section of our website at www.dio.org/missions to learn more.

Web Site Features

Virtual Stations of the Cross