CINCINNATI, Ohio — As the season of Lent unfolds, faith leaders across the region are encouraging reflection on personal and communal responsibilities through a series of teachings grounded in scripture and service. The messages resonate with the core values of love, forgiveness, and community support.
Drawing from the teachings in Matthew 23:3-4, various speakers have highlighted the importance of acting just as much as preaching faith. Pam Long, chair of the Social Action Commission for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, emphasizes the necessity of living out one’s faith through action. ‘We must not only profess our beliefs but actively engage in serving those in need around us,’ she said.
Long’s reflections echo a broader call for Christians to examine their personal practices. ‘How can we truly love our neighbors if we limit our compassion to those who are close by?’ she asked. ‘We need to extend our helping hands beyond our own community.’ This challenge aims to stir a deeper connection within the local and global communities.
The Lenten journey is described as a time for individuals to assess their spiritual practices and commitments. Paco Patag, Associate Director for Adult Evangelization & Pastoral Ministry, discussed the necessity of responsiveness to God’s call: ‘Like St. Joseph, we must strive to recognize God’s voice and to trust in His direction through all of life’s challenges.’
Statistics provided by Long indicate that nearly 40% of Cincinnati residents experience some form of poverty, bringing urgency to this call for action. ‘This is a critical time for us to step in and help bring about change,’ she added.
The theme of forgiveness runs throughout the reflections, particularly as Deacon Ed Bayliss challenges Christians to embrace mercy even towards those who have caused them harm. He remarks, ‘Forgiveness is essential, not just for the sake of others, but for our liberation and peace.’ Acknowledging past grievances is seen as crucial for spiritual growth.
Additionally, the teachings intersect with contemporary societal issues—addressing concerns like homelessness, food insecurity, and refugee support. Andrea Patch, the Eastern Regional Director for NET Ministries, noted these struggles are as relevant today as they were in biblical times. ‘While we may not walk through the deserts of old, we face our figurative deserts of modern injustice and suffering every day.’
Each reflection concludes with an invitation to prayer that urges participants to look inward, adopt a servant-leader mentality, and commit to supporting their community. ‘As children of God, we have a mission to uplift one another,’ said Long. ‘This Lent, let us put faith into action.’
