Lent: Heart Transformation through Prayer – Feb 24 – Homily – Fr Joseph Michael

 

Fr Joseph Michael gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Feb 24, 2026, and  reflects on the Gospel's call for Lenten transformation through pure prayer, seeking God's will, and heartfelt forgiveness.

In this homily, Father explains how Lent purifies our hearts as we follow Jesus. He teaches that prayer should come straight from the heart with faith and trust, not empty words like the pagans. The Our Father shows us to say "thy will be done," helping us let go of our own plans and obey God's commandments. Lent gives us grace to do this. Finally, true change means forgiving others fully, without holding grudges, so our hearts stay clean. Our Lady guides us to draw near to God in prayer, to follow His will, and to forgive as Jesus did.

Catechism of the Catholic Church - Prayer as heart's conversation - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p4s1.htm#2559
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Our Father perfect prayer - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p4s2.htm#2759
Catechism of the Catholic Church - God's will in obedience - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p4s2a3.htm#iii
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Forgiveness from heart - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p4s2a3.htm#v

Ave Maria!

Mass: Tuesday 1st Week of Lent - Wkdy
Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022426.cfm
1st: Isaiah 55:10-11
Resp: Psalms 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19
Gsp: Matthew 6:7-15

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1741

Also on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wrdUV9xvsGk