Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving . . . that’s what we’re encouraged to do every Lent. As a teen, it’s easy to make an excuse to get out of the almsgiving part. After all, you don’t make a ton of money, and it’s hard to find a charity that you’re sure is legit and will use your donation for causes and/or organizations you can support as a faithful Catholic.
We have the perfect suggestion. If you can do something as simple as gather your spare change all throughout Lent, you could literally change someone’s life.
The Rice Bowl program is sponsored by Catholic Relief Services and 94% of your donation goes straight to organizations that help those afflicted by poverty. You can participate in three ways:
- Pray. Remember our brothers and sisters around the world this Lent.
- Fast. What you give up for Lent, can change lives.
- Give. Donate the dollar value of your Lenten sacrifices to those in need.
Don’t cop-out of almsgiving this year. We’re all blessed with so much; it’s time to purposefully give to the poor. Besides, you don’t really need that grande, soy, caramel frappuccino with no-whip . . .
Learn more at CRSRiceBowl.org.
Let us pray.
Abundant God, Help us this Lent to let go of those things that weigh us down. May our prayers and sacrifices bring us closer to your Son, Jesus, and help bring life to our brothers and sisters who struggle with hunger and poverty. May we proclaim the dignity of life, and celebrate the witness of your love each day. Amen.
