Lent is a humble descent both inwards and towards others. It is about realizing that salvation is not an ascent to glory, but a descent in love.

“Jesus announces to us that God is not an idea or an abstract doctrine, but God is the one who ‘contaminates’ himself with our human woundedness and is not afraid to come into contact with our wounds,” the pope said.

Below is the text of Pope Francis' homily, delivered on Jan. 6, 2021, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.

Summertime can and should be a time for extra prayer, a moment of peace that allows Christians to savor the joy of their relationship with Jesus and find new strength to reach out with love to others, Pope Francis said.

"By taking one small step, we make God’s mercy overflow in situations of desolation."

Then the pope asked: “What is the cross for you? Yes, it is the Christian symbol. We make the sign of the cross, but often we do not do it well.”