Bangalore, 26 February 2020: In the Archdiocese, Ash Wednesday not only marked the beginning of the Holy Season of Lent, but also the inauguration of the Year of the Poor-2020 in all the parishes, religious communities and institutions. Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, the Archbishop of Bangalore, presided over the Holy Eucharist at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral and officially inaugurated the Year of the Poor by unveiling the official banner and releasing the prayer cards.
Speaking in his homily the Archbishop emphasized the significance of applying ashes on the forehead. “The season of Lent is the season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Prayer is a link which connects us with God and we need to deepen our relationship with God through prayer,” the Prelate urged the faithful.
The Archbishop recalled his experience of visiting an exhibition where the marvelous things were designed just by recycling the scrap or waste material. The replicas made with paper and scraps were sold like hotcakes. Deriving an example from this, His Grace the Archbishop said that there is so much richness within us. Our internal treasures are to be brought out and we must offer them to the Lord as well as at the service of the needy. He officially inaugurated the year of the Poor and said “Season of Lent is connects very well with the Poor as well, as we specially dedicate year 2020 as the Year of the Poor. As we share our goods with the less fortunate, we draw ourselves closer to the Lord… As we are living in the technological world, there’s an urgent need to put an end to the culture of waste,” he added.
Among the 10 action plans for the Year of the Poor the Archbishop stressed on Simple Lifestyle and Culture of waste.
Rev. Fr. John Antony, the Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral just before the homily read out the Declaration for the Year of the Poor to a large congregation that had gathered for the Ash Wednesday services. The solemn Holy Eucharist was concelebrated by the Cathedral clergy, Rev. Fr. Arokiaraj, Chancellor, and other priests.
Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph
Director, ACC
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