Dignity/Chicago

**Entering the Season of Lent**
**We now enter the season of Lent, a time that invites us to reflect on what this journey asks of each of us this year.**

We begin this season amid turmoil on many levels. All around us, we see and hear the cries of injustice. Many are feeling confused, angry, fearful, and overwhelmed, and it is easy to slip into a sense of powerlessness or despair. Yet Lent offers us a sacred opportunity—to pray, to reflect deeply, and to take meaningful action that challenges injustice in the places closest to our lives.

As we walk the Lenten journey, we are reminded that it ultimately leads us toward the hope and promise of Easter. Lent is a season of discernment, helping us recognize the ways we are called to act for justice. DignityUSA has a powerful message about our baptismal vows, which call us to move forward when injustice arises. Click here to view this powerful statement.

Below are a few ways we can take action to advance social justice within our communities:

Reflect on and examine what you believe
Learn more about social justice issues
Partner with local organizations
Engage actively in your community
Raise awareness through social media
Protest when necessary
Volunteer your time and donate resources
Participate in the political process

Each step, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to building a more just and compassionate world. This Lenten season reminds us that even when life feels out of control, we are still called to walk in hope, to choose compassion, and to trust that God is drawing light out of the darkness.

Mary Donnelly, President

Dignity/Chicago

Dignity/Chicago has ministered to LGBTQI Catholics and our allies in the Chicago area since 1972. We serve the community through worship, spiritual education, and social justice action.

As one of many chapters within DignityUSA, we—along with our chapters and Catholic organizations around the world—are deeply committed to justice, equality, and the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in our church and society. We firmly believe that every person is beloved by God and possesses equal dignity. We will continue this work until these goals are fully realized.

Join us for Mass on the 1st and 4th Sundays of the month at 5:00 p.m., in-person at Broadway United Methodist Church, 3338 N. Broadway in Chicago. To join us via Teams, send a request to: DignityChicago@gmail.com.