In the wake of Lent, a season devoted to renewal, reflection and preparation, we transition into the joy and hope of the Easter season. This period is not just a conclusion to the journey of Lent but a beginning, marked by the resurrection of Christ, symbolizing new life and renewal for Christians around the world.

As we embrace the spirit of Easter, it’s important to carry forward the lessons and commitments we’ve nurtured during Lent into the broader tapestry of our daily lives.

Continuing the practice of fasting from meat on Fridays comes as a special request from Bishop Earl Fernandes, who, in a heartfelt letter to the faithful in December 2023, urged us to fast in reparation for the passage of state Issue 1, which enshrined abortion in the Ohio constitution. This act of sacrifice is a profound way to stand in solidarity with the unborn, echoing the Lenten spirit of penance and reflection into the Easter season and beyond.

In addition to fasting, the Easter season calls us to deepen our engagement with prayer, education, service and advocacy, especially regarding the protection of the unborn and the support of women and families.  These efforts are vital expressions of our faith in action, embodying the Gospel’s call to love and serve the most vulnerable among us.

Advocating against the use of the death penalty is another critical area where our Easter faith compels us to act.  As the Ohio General Assembly deliberates bills to abolish the death penalty, we find the Church’s teaching on the dignity of life guiding our stance. Lending our voice to our legislators is a tangible way to participate in the shaping of a more compassionate and just society.

As we transition from Lent to Easter, let’s not forget to return our CRS Rice Bowls. These bowls symbolize our Lenten journey of solidarity and support for those most in need, facilitated by Catholic Relief Services. By turning in your Rice Bowls to your local parish, you’re not only concluding a Lenten practice but also reaffirming your commitment to help those in need globally and locally.  Let’s continue to support CRS’s efforts to assist the poor and vulnerable, reflecting our faith’s call to solidarity.

Supporting local Catholic charities remains a cornerstone of living out our Easter faith. Organizations such as Catholic Social Services, JOIN (Joint Organization for Inner-City Needs), St. Stephen’s Community House, St. Vincent Family Services, St. Francis Center in McArthur and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul are essential in our efforts to extend our hands to those in need.  The spirit of almsgiving, central to Lent, is indeed a practice that bears fruit year-round, whether through financial support or volunteer service.

With Earth Day approaching on April 22, we are reminded that every day is an opportunity to care for our common home. In the opening lines of the encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis writes, “Praise be to you, my Lord. In the words of this beautiful canticle, St. Francis of Assisi reminds us that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us.” This message invites us to live out our faith through concrete actions aimed at preserving the beauty and integrity of God’s creation and caring for the poor.

As we move forward from Lent into the Easter season, let us continue to embody the teachings and spirit of this sacred time. Let our actions reflect a deep commitment to justice, mercy and the sanctity of life. Easter is not just a moment to celebrate but a call to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives, inspired by the hope and renewal Christ’s resurrection brings.

Jerry Freewalt is director of the diocesan Office for Social Concerns.