As we stand on the threshold of Lent 2015, I want to call to your attention our story on page five of this issue about Pope Francis’ message for the 40-day period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

The Holy Father criticizes the “globalization of indifference” so prevalent in society today. And he urges us to confront it by exhorting us to “make your hearts firm,” specifically turning to the sacrament of the Eucharist at Mass.

At this time, I would ask for your prayers of intercession in a special way, as, on Feb. 4, oral arguments in the Eternal Word Television Network’s religious-freedom case (EWTN v. Burwell) were heard at the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. This is the same court that granted us emergency relief last July.

The stakes are great: our ability to remain faithful in practice to the very message of the Gospel on which Mother Angelica founded EWTN more than 30 years ago. 

Thank you in advance for your continued prayers. I pray you have a fruitful Lent.

God bless you!