Answer the call of Pope Francis this Lenten season

What comes to mind when you think of Lent? Fish Fridays, purple vestments, giving up a cherished activity? Most Catholics have this down. For forty days we ditch the sugar and the sodas, we keep our Friday fasts and we make it to Mass every Sunday. However, there is more we dare you to do.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Lent is a season where we empty ourselves so that we may be filled with the Lord. This is why we make sacrifices. We eliminate unnecessary distractions from our life. It's spring cleaning for the soul.

But are we doing enough? Many Catholics are doing the same thing they have done since they were teenagers.

The notable thing about the pontificate of Francis is that he directly challenges us to do more than our usual routine. Sure, every pope in modern history has called upon the people to take extra spiritual steps, but Pope Francis has captured the public imagination and his calls to action echo around the globe.

This year, Pope Francis continues to ask Catholics to do more than just give something up. He asks each of us to actually go out and do something, to contribute to the greater good of the world.

Understandably, this is hard for many people. Work schedules, kids, practices for this activity or another all take their toll. During this sacramental season, kids prepare for first communions, confirmations and young adults prepare for weddings. It's a bustling time and taking that extra step requested by some guy in a distant capitol seems like a step too far at the end of a very long day.

Yet, that extra step is what distinguishes you.

If you can get into the streets to care for the homeless, or find an activity in your parish, these are excellent choices. If this is a challenge for you amid many responsibilities, consider donating to support the people who are working in the fields of the Lord. They cannot work without your support.

Your Catholic Voice Foundation is challenging all Catholics to donate to the poor in response to Pope Francis' call.

Your donation of food will be sent to the poorest people, those who cannot fend for themselves and rely on the Church for their survival. Help us help them by doing more this Lent.

---

'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education'