Lent.... what did you give up?

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29

I can’t improve or think of a better decision that what Pope Leo XIV suggested to give up for Lent…

“LET US BEGIN BY DISARMING OUR LANGUAGE.” – Pope Leo XIV

As we prepare for Lent, Pope Leo is reminding us that fasting isn’t just about food. It’s about our words.

In a recent Wednesday Audience, he invited us to practice a powerful and often overlooked form of abstinence:

Refraining from harsh words

Avoiding rash judgment

Resisting slander

Not speaking ill of those who aren’t present

Lent 2026 isn’t just about giving up sweets. It’s about giving up sin.

When we tear others down with our words, we wound the Body of Christ. But when we choose restraint, charity, and mercy, we build up the Church.

This year, let’s not only fast from food.

Let’s fast from gossip.

Let’s fast from sarcasm.

Let’s fast from criticism that crushes.

And let our speech reflect Christ.

We are loved and chosen by God,

May we live, love and do like we believe it!

veneal

I apologize for being behind and lazy in posting. I am striving to catch up for Lent. Thank you for your grace. <3

The above is not my writing, but speaks well of my heart.