Holding Hope in Uncertain Times

Holding Hope in Uncertain Times

In recent weeks, many of us have felt the weight of troubling news across Minnesota and our nation. Stories of unrest, fear, anger, and division can easily leave us unsettled. Conversations feel heavier. Emotions run stronger. And at times, it can seem as though peace is in short supply.

Scripture reminds us that this is not new.

“You will hear of wars and reports of wars; see that you are not alarmed.”
— Matthew 24:6

Jesus does not deny that the world will experience turmoil. Instead, He gently calls His followers not to be overcome by it, not to let fear, anger, or despair shape our hearts.

As we move deeper into the sacred season of Lent, the Church invites us to pause and remember who we are and whose we are. Lent is not a season of anxiety, but of renewal. It is a time to step back from the noise of the world and return our focus to Christ.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
— Psalm 51:12

While the world often pulls us toward outrage and division, Lent draws us inward — toward prayer, fasting, generosity, and conversion of heart. It reminds us that lasting change begins not in headlines or arguments, but in humility before God.

Our faith calls us to hold two truths together:

• We acknowledge the unrest and tension present in our world.

• And we refuse to lose sight of hope.

Saint Paul speaks directly to moments like these:

“Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good.”
— Romans 12:21

As a parish community, we are invited to be a place of stability when the world feels unstable — a place where charity is stronger than fear, and prayer louder than division. We may not all share the same perspectives, but we are united in Christ, nourished by the Eucharist, and called to love one another as He has loved us.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
— Matthew 5:9

Being peacemakers does not mean ignoring pain or pretending problems do not exist. It means choosing to respond differently, with patience instead of panic, compassion instead of condemnation, and faith instead of fear.

As we look ahead, Easter is coming.

Lent always leads to resurrection.

The cross is never the end of the story.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
— John 1:5

No matter what unrest surrounds us, Christ remains present in our homes, our parish, and our community. He is at work, quietly healing hearts, restoring hope, and reminding us that love is stronger than division and mercy greater than fear.

In the weeks ahead, may we:

• Pray intentionally for peace in our communities and nation

• Support one another with kindness and patience

• Remain rooted in the sacraments

• Keep our eyes fixed on the promise of Easter

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord — plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future filled with hope.”
— Jeremiah 29:11

May this Lenten season renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and prepare us to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, confident that God is still writing a story of hope among His people.