Today we enter the holy season of Lent.

We are marked with ashes and we hear the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Those words are not meant to shame us. They are meant to humble us. They remind us that we are human, fragile, and utterly dependent upon God.

Lent is not about religious performance. It is not about public displays of sacrifice. As our Lord says in Matthew 6, when you fast, do not do it to be seen. This season is about returning. Returning to prayer. Returning to repentance. Returning to Christ.

We begin this Lent in a time that feels uncertain and heavy for many. There is division. There is fear. There is exhaustion. The ashes remind us that life is fragile, but they also remind us that God is steadfast.

The prophet Joel calls out, “Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful.” That is the heart of Lent. Not fear. Not despair. But mercy.

As your Bishop, I invite you into a serious and sincere observance of this season. Pray more. Give more. Forgive more. Fast from what hardens your heart. Make room for what restores your soul.

Lent begins in dust, but it leads us to resurrection.

Let us walk these forty days with courage, humility, and hope

Bishop Ryan Cox