Almsgiving is necessary to let go of the lust of the eyes, the desire for possessions. Lent is the time of year where the Church calls us back to what we should already be busy about doing, the three principles of Lent are the three principles of progessing in the Spiritual Life. They all three have purpose and function. The fruit of Almsgiving is that we can let go more perfectly of the worldly pleasure to which we have become addicted. If I cannot control my lust for stuff, I should be charitable.

It is sometimes recommended that we should fast (especially for Lent) from sinful behaviors instead of food or other good pleasures. However, this is a misses the mark of understanding of human nature. If I cannot deny myself the pleasure of candy, dessert, alcohol, etc, how could I possibly have enough will power to overcome gossip, obscenity, sexual sin, or other addictive sins.

This is the purpose of all Christians, that we cultivate our own personal holiness. Holiness is not reserved for clergy and religious, but is the purpose for which we were each created. Jesus is calling His followers to a higher standard of life, calls them to take the minimal requirement of the Law and dig deeper, pursuing perfection. Throughout the Scriptures, it is evident that each person is called to holiness, that is to say, an intimate life with God. Prayer, and deep … See more

Why do we use ashes on Ash Wednesday?

In my experience, people tend to get nervous about going to Confession because they are afraid of not knowing what to do. Below are a few tips from my own experience and the experience of a few other priests.