The U.S. Bishops’ Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development shared this CRS Rice Bowl video along with a short reflection on the sixth Station of the Cross when Veronica wipes Jesus’ face. It’s in that simple encounter that she reaches out to the suffering.

Here’s an excerpt:

[quote_box_center]So often, we are tempted to feel this way as we look out at our world so full of tragedy. We think, our little gesture won’t amount to anything—a few dollars here, some time spent there. What difference will that make? At those moments, we should remind ourselves of Veronica. Veronica was quite literally present to the suffering Christ. She reached out to him, and he reached back. That’s what we’re called to do. We should never underestimate the value of simply being present, of reaching out in mercy and love to another human being, someone made in the image and likeness of God. And we must allow those whom we serve to reach back, to touch our hearts and our lives. As we are the hands of Christ, so, too, are those whom we serve.[/quote_box_center]

[quote_box_center]

Lenten resources

For families

For parishes

For educators including youth and young adult ministry

Papal message

U.S. bishops

Samples of Lenten calendars

[/quote_box_center]