We are called to build a culture of encounter.

Jesus made that clear from the way he lived, the message he preached. Pope Francis makes that clear by his own daily example. And we have a host of holy men and women who have come before us, who have gone to the margins of society so that every member of our human family might know the love of God.

Now, it’s our turn. With the spiritual pillars of Lent at our disposal, we set out on a 40-day journey, a journey of encounter with ourselves, our neighbors and our God.

• Through prayer, we encounter Christ, present in the faces of every member of our human family, so often still walking that long road to Calvary.
• Through fasting, we encounter our own obstacles, those things about ourselves that prevent us from loving God and neighbor.
• Through almsgiving, we encounter our brothers and sisters around the world, asking what we can give up so that others might have life to the fullest.

Lent is our time to encounter, to cultivate a spirit of global solidarity. CRS Rice Bowl is our guide, a vehicle for sharing the stories of communities around the world, and an invitation through which our prayers and Lenten sacrifices can change lives.

How will you contribute to the culture of encounter this Lent?