Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, prefect for the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, has written to all men and women religious in the context of Lent and the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the letter: English | español

In this special Lenten message, he encourages religious men and women to participate in requirements of Church and government officials to safeguard health and, most especially, to pray for the workers trying to protect us, noting the special contributions of contemplative communities and of elderly religious whose daily prayer accompanies the ministry and apostolic work of active members.

Cardinal de Aviz also calls upon religious to “give a sign of hope and trust,” writing, “Dear Sisters and Brothers, through modern means of communication we have the opportunity to participate in celebrations and formative moments; we have the opportunity to feel less alone and isolated and to make our voice reach the most distant communities! Let us give a sign of hope and trust to all and while living these days with anxiety and apprehension, be convinced that by doing our part well, we can help the community emerge from the present hour of darkness.”

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