Jesus is Resurrection and Life: Finding Hope in Lent and Faith
VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis has encouraged Catholics to embrace silence and contemplation during Lent, suggesting a deliberate disconnection from technology to foster a deeper connection with God. The call came during his Angelus address on Sunday, March 22, 2026, as the Church observes the fourth week of Lent.
Drawing on the Gospel account of the raising of Lazarus, the Pope reflected on Jesus’ power over death and the importance of faith. He described Jesus as “the plunderer of tombs,” emphasizing his authority even over the ultimate boundary of human existence. The Pope’s homily, delivered to pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, centered on the theme of resurrection and the invitation to a “real relationship” with Jesus, moving beyond mere intellectual understanding.
“When we confess that Jesus is Lord, what do we mean?” the Pope asked, according to a transcript released by the Vatican News. “Among other things, this: that he has power over death, that he commands where death commands, that his lordship reaches that ultimate frontier of death.”
The Pope specifically urged individuals to create space for silence in their lives, suggesting a temporary “turning off” of smartphones as a means to facilitate listening to God. This message echoes a growing concern within the Church about the distractions of modern life and their impact on spiritual practice. ACI Prensa reported that the Pope framed this as a way to allow God’s spontaneous gifts to be received, rather than attempting to dictate the terms of the relationship.
The reflection on Lazarus’ resurrection served as a metaphor for the spiritual renewal offered during Lent. The Pope distinguished between a superficial understanding of faith and a genuine, lived relationship with Christ, emphasizing the need to “rest our life in Him,” allowing his life to flow into believers and bear fruit. He also highlighted the importance of acknowledging and expressing grief, noting that Christian sorrow differs from despair, recognizing death as a passage to new life.
The Pope’s message coincided with observances of Viernes de la IV semana de Cuaresma (Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent) as noted by the USCCB. In Granada, Spain, the Hermandad de la Estrella observed a particularly moving Vía Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession, described by Granada Hoy as “one of the most emotional acts I remember.” While geographically distinct, both events underscore the central themes of suffering, sacrifice, and hope that define the Lenten season.
The Pope concluded his address by emphasizing the power of love, stating that “only love triumphs.” He encouraged listeners to embrace the announcement of resurrection, not merely as a future event, but as a present reality capable of transforming lives.