The Archbishop of Wellington, John Dew has invited all of the parishes in the Archdiocese to take part in a “new look” form of the 40 Hours, a devotional practice which used to be common in New Zealand.
He has suggested parishes celebrate 24 Hours for the Lord beginning on Friday 13 March and concluding on the Saturday evening with the vigil Mass of the fourth Sunday of Lent.
Dew is asking that the parish churches remain open throughout the 24 hours, and that the Sacrament of Reconciliation be made available at certain times within the respective pastoral areas.
“It may also be, in your parish community or pastoral area, a way of celebrating the Year of Consecrated Life,” said Dew.
The 24 Hours for the Lord is being observed worldwide on 13 and 14 March.
The Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation says the theme guiding the reflection this year is “God rich in mercy.” (Ephesians 2:4)
Churches around the world, have been asked where possible to dedicate a full 24 hours to the Sacrament of Reconciliation ensuring the initiative coincides with Eucharistic Adoration.
Pope Francis is encouraging confession with 24 Hours For The Lord.
Prior to the initiative last year he often repeated that going to Confession is not like a torture chamber.
He said at an audience – “you turn red once, you’re absolved of your sins, and you move on”.
Source
- Supplied – Archdiocese of Wellington.
- sydneycatholic.org
- novaevangelizatio.va
- Image:i.ytimg.com
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