The Holy Father traditionally writes a letter for the start of Lent, giving certain guidelines for this season of preparation for Easter. Here is a summary of his letter. Overall goal of Lent: Lent is a time in which the Church, invites us to place the mystery of God back in the centre of our lives, in order to find renewal in our faith and keep our hearts from being consumed by the anxieties and distractions of daily life. Conversion: To turn toward God — conversion literally means a “turning toward” — we need the Word of God. Every path towards conversion begins by allowing the Word of God to touch our hearts and welcoming it with an open spirit. The Lenten journey is a welcome opportunity to listen to the voice of the Lord and renew our commitment to following Christ, accompanying him on the road to Jerusalem, where the mystery of his passion, death, and resurrection will be fulfilled.