Pope Leo XIV is urging Catholics to listen more closely to God and to others, and to practice a unique form of sacrifice this Lenten season — fasting from words that cause harm.

In his message for Lent 2026, released on February 13, the Holy Father described Lent as a time when the Church invites the faithful to place God back at the center of their lives, allowing them to renew their faith and avoid being overwhelmed by daily worries and distractions.

According to EWTN News, the pope highlighted the importance of listening — both to the Word of God and to the cry of the poor — as a way of deepening one’s relationship with God and becoming more aware of suffering in the world.

Speaking about fasting, he said abstaining from food remains an essential spiritual discipline that helps believers recognize their deeper spiritual hunger. He also cited the teachings of St. Augustine of Hippo, who emphasized that the human heart grows through its desire for God.

However, the pope also proposed a practical Lenten resolution: refraining from offensive and hurtful speech. He encouraged the faithful to avoid harsh words, rash judgment, slander, and speaking ill of others — especially within families, workplaces, social media, public discussions, and media spaces.

He said replacing hateful language with words of hope and peace can help build stronger and more compassionate communities.

The Holy Father also stressed that Lent is not only a personal spiritual journey but a shared one within families, parishes, and faith communities, where listening to God and responding to the suffering of others should become part of everyday life.

In closing, he invited the faithful to pray for grace and strength during the penitential season, so that Lent may lead to greater attentiveness to God and to those in need, helping create communities rooted in love, compassion, and respect.