The Vatican this month released a partial schedule of Pope Francis‘ liturgical events for February and early March, coinciding with the approach of Lent and observances throughout the Catholic Church[[1]]. The schedule includes the Pope’s participation in events marking the Week of Christian Unity and the World Day for Consecrated Life,as well as the start of Lent with a traditional Ash Wednesday service [[3]]. Notably, this year’s calendar features a spiritual retreat for Pope Francis and leaders of the Roman Curia, an event not held for five years[[3]].
Pope Francis will observe a period of spiritual retreat with leaders of the Roman Curia in late February, according to a schedule of the pontiff’s activities released this month. The announcement comes as the Catholic Church prepares for the observance of Lent, a significant period of reflection and penitence for Christians worldwide.
The schedule, published January 9, details the Pope’s engagements through February.
On January 25, the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Pope Francis will lead Vespers at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls to close the Week of Christian Unity, beginning at 5:30 p.m. local time.
February 2, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also marks the 30th World Day for Consecrated Life. The Pope will celebrate Mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica at 5:00 p.m. that day.
Ash Wednesday, February 14, will see Pope Francis begin the Lenten season with a penitential procession from the Church of Sant’Anselmo to the Basilica of Santa Sabina, where he will celebrate Mass and impart the blessing and imposition of ashes, starting at 4:30 p.m.
From February 22 to 27, Pope Francis and the heads of Vatican departments will participate in a spiritual retreat at the Vatican.
Learn more at Vatican News.
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