Lent can show how we can break the yoke of the oppressed - and undo unjust fetters : (April 2006)

It is worth reflecting how some Christian celebrations and seasons have been captured by the commercial world.

Christmas has become the greatest financial season for all retailing businesses. Easter, with cream eggs, cards and Easter eggs is a major season for card and confectionery businesses.

Ironically, Lent, with its suggestion of austerity does not seem to have the same commercial appeal! Sadly, a consequence of this is that even good Christians often do not give Lent the attention it requires.

Once upon a time we had clear rules and regulations which emphasised the penitential character of this season. The liturgy and related readings proclaim a time for reflection on life, a time of repentance and a time of preparation for the great celebration of Easter.

Fr Perry Gildea - Vincentian Fathers

Cliftonville Road, Belfast 15

They also talk of fasting and prayer as fundamental values for Christianity. The fasting proclaimed in our liturgy is far from negative...

"The sort of fast that pleases me, it is the Lord who speaks, is to break unjust fetters and undo the thongs of the yoke; to let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke; to share our bread with the hungry; and shelter the homeless and poor; to clothes the man you see naked, and not turn from your own kin. Then will your light shine like the dawn and your wound quickly be healed over." - (Isaiah 58, 1-9 - First reading Friday after Ash Wednesday)

The Trócaire Lenten campaign helps to keep the social dimension of Christian fasting before us. Willingness to fast or do without expresses an awareness of the plight of the starving in so many of the developing countries.

Consequent on that is our obligation to help them. That is an essential element of this season. Other aspects of the Isaiah fast, sharing bread with the hungry, clothing the naked, and sheltering the homeless are part and parcel of the daily efforts of Vincentians everywhere.

Perhaps during this Lenten time we can reflect on the other elements of fasting.

How can we break the yoke of the oppressed, or undo unjust fetters?

Archived Reflections....click here

Ireland as a country with considerable wealth is now seen as a haven by many of the world's poor. They make their way here but on arrival they still face face difficulties and injustices.

The ideals of the SVP are not just about relieving poverty but also about tackling the causes of poverty especially social injustice.

Isaiah reminds us that commitment to the cause of the oppressed is a source of grace and forgiveness. It is also a source of inspiration for others.

"Then will your light shine like the dawn."

Fr Perry (April 2006)

Jesus fasts