Today is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Gus goes over exactly what that is and what some of the rules and regulations of fasting an abstinence and provides gives a brief health update on Pope Francis. Afterwards, Dr. Matthew Bunson of EWTN calls in to talk a little more on the rules, regulations and traditions of Lent and also gives a fuller report on Pope Francis’ medical condition, which continues to be complex. He continues to be “alert, cooperative with therapies, and oriented” throughout the day. He also talks about a letter of resignation that Pope Francis authored and handed to Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone to be submitted in the event of a serious medical issue. In true Pope Francis style, he said recently that he doesn’t know what has happened to it. They also discuss the USCCB filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration after the State Department cancelled contracts for “refugee resettlement” as part of a major funding freeze.
Later, Fr. Leo Patalinghug calls in to talk about a number of things of Catholic importance, beginning with the non-use of the word “Alleluia” in the Catholic Church liturgy through the 40 days of Lent, including the six Sunday masses. He explains why that is and how, in the Eastern Orthodox Church liturgy, they do the opposite and say the word “alleluia” even more. It’s a Hebrew word that translates to “Praise the Lord.” They also talk about how Ash Wednesday, which is not a Holy Day of Obligation, is probably the third most attended mass in the Church calendar because of the disposition of ashes. He also gives Lenten penance advice for people, including the important one that, if your penance is causing your great stress and is making you miserable, drop it and find a new one. The purpose is to draw closer to God, not isolate yourself from everyone around you.
Also, since today marks the beginning of Lent 2025, Gus continues a Seize the Day tradition by offering up a unique daily reading and reflection. Last year, he read Psalm 51 every day and offered up his daily thoughts on that. This year, he’s reading a chapter a day from Thomas a Kempis’ “Imitation of Christ,” which was first published in the 15th century and has gone on to be a spiritual classic.
And Gus opens up the phones for listeners to call in and share what they're doing for Lent.
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