Having faith does not mean having no difficulties, but having the strength to face them, knowing we are not alone.

The times talk to us of so much poverty in the world and this is a scandal. Poverty in the world is a scandal. In a world where there is so much wealth, so many resources to feed everyone, it is unfathomable that there are so many hungry children, that there are so many children without an education, so many poor persons. Poverty today is a cry.

The culture of prosperity deadens us; we are thrilled if the market offers us something new to purchase; and in the meantime all those lives stunted for lack of opportunity seem a mere spectacle; they fail to move us.

Let us say "Yes" to life and not death. Let us say "Yes" to freedom and not enslavement to the many idols of our time. In a word, let us say "Yes" to the God who is love, life and freedom, and who never disappoints.

Lent is a good time for sacrificing. Let us deny ourselves something every day to help others.

The love of Christ fills our hearts and makes us always able to forgive!

I thank all missionaries, men and women who quietly work hard for the Lord and their brothers and sisters.