Pope Benedict XVI observed Ash Wednesday and focused on virtue of almsgiving in his annual Lenten address. "'Christ made Himself poor for you.' In giving alms, we offer something material, a sign of the greater gift that we can impart to others through the announcement and witness of Christ" Benedict said.
"I wish to spend some time reflecting on the practice of almsgiving, which represents a specific way to assist those in need and, at the same time, an exercise in self-denial to free us from attachment to worldly goods... Almsgiving helps us to overcome this constant temptation, teaching us to respond to our neighbor's needs and to share with others whatever we possess through divine goodness," adds the pope.
Pope Benedict XVI's message is echoed by other Catholic churches around the world, including the Philippines. Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales has asked the Filipino faithful to give to charity to mark the traditional observance of Ash Wednesday today. Millions of devout Filipino catholic are expected to crowd churches nationwide to have their foreheads crossed with ash as a sign of renewal of their baptismal vows.
"Dear brothers and sisters, Lent invites us to "train ourselves" spiritually, also through the practice of almsgiving, in order to grow in charity and recognize in the poor Christ Himself," Pope Benedict XVI cites on his Lenten message posted on the Vatican's website.
Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate the Ash Wednesday Holy Mass and the Imposition of the Ashes at the Basilica of St. Anselmo.
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