The papal message is delivered annually to Catholics worldwide
in the weeks leading up to Easter, known as the Lenten period.
This year's theme stems from the second chapter of the Bible's
book of Colossians with a passage about baptism. Benedict says
Lent is a "most valuable and liturgical time" for Catholics and
urges the faithful "to be guided by the word of God." The Pope
writes the period of Lent calls Christians to "retrace the steps
of Christian initiation." Benedict says through baptism,
believers are moved to free themselves from "the burden of
material things." The Pope stresses the ritual of fasting during
Lent. He describes it as a means to overcome selfishness.
Benedict tells Catholics that fasting enables Christians to be
more open to the needs of others. He also warns of the "greed of
possession" and the "idolatry of goods," saying it undermines
the importance of God. The Pope urges Catholics to seek prayer
during the Lenten season for a closer relationship with God and
to understand his words.