LENT & CAMPANHA DA FRATERNIDADE

IN THE ANNIVERSARY OF OUR

“WONDERFUL CITY”

It is not a surprise for the Church in Brazil to use the Campanha da Fraternidade as a source of encouragement to all Christians willing to live the Lenten spirit of reconciliation and renewal. This year, the Campaign is a motivation for the exercise of fraternity through service.

 

Its theme is: Fraternity: Church and Society with its motto: 

 

“I came to serve” Mk 10:45. 

 

Although Lent is in itself the best opportunity for the Christians to seek for a better understanding of the faith and the practice of the teachings of Christ, the Campanha da Fraternity helps us to be active members of a society that is marked by so many contradictions.

 

This year is very special for the construction of a new society based on justice and peace, but the Church depends on all people of good will. The Church in Rio de Janeiro can be an example of what it is to be blessed. This month, with the celebrations of the anniversary of the city, we have an even bigger commitment of giving back to the “wonderful city” all that it deserves. 

 

For the occasion of her anniversary, the city received the blessing of Pope Francis who has sent a video message to the Brazilian people on the 450th anniversary of its founding. Recalling the city’s famed statue of Christ the Redeemer, the Pontiff asked what Christ sees as he looks upon the city. Christ sees “natural beauty” as well as “the contrast generated by great social inequalities: opulence and misery, injustice, violence,” he said in the message, which the Holy See Press Office released in January.

 

“Between selfish indifference and violent protest there is always another possible option: that of dialogue,” he continued. “Dialogue between generations, dialogue among the people, because we are all people … Everyone has something to contribute to constructing a more just and fraternal civilization.”

 

“I believe that everyone can learn much from the example of generosity and solidarity of the most simple people,” the Pope added.

 

 

- Kátia Souza

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