24 Hours for the Lord

For the second year in a row, the Holy Father has invited dioceses, parishes and communities to join with him in participating in the initiative entitled 24 Hours for the Lord. This program, which has been organised by the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation, and is aimed at placing the Sacrament of Reconciliation once again at the centre of the pastoral activity of the Church, will be held on March 13th and 14th. The theme that will guide this year's reflection is 'God rich in mercy' (Eph. 2:4).

Pope Francis will open the initiative by presiding at a penitential celebration in St Peter's Basilica on Friday, 13 March.

Following the conclusion of this service, a number of churches throughout the City of Rome will remain open for 24 hours with confessors available and Eucharistic Adoration. Dioceses, parishes and communities around the world are invited to adapt the initiative to their local situations and needs.

A Pastoral Aid has been prepared in Italian, English, Spanish, French and Polish to assist those who have accepted the invitation of Pope Francis to participate in this event and will provide communities and individuals with a resource which will enable all people, be they near or distant from the Church, to reflect upon and celebrate the great gift of God's mercy and forgiveness.

A poster of the event can be downloaded for distribution at: www.novaevangelizatio.va