02/18/2026
Ash Wednesday • Beginning of Lent
Today, on Ash Wednesday, we enter the holy season of Lent—a time of prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and conversion of heart. As we receive ashes, we are reminded that we are called not only to repent, but to live the Gospel more fully.
At Chavez Family Vision, we remember Cesar Chavez as a deeply devoted Catholic whose faith shaped every part of his life and leadership. For Cesar, faith was not confined to Sunday worship—it was lived out in service to the poor, the dignity of workers, nonviolence, and the unwavering belief that every human person is created in the image of God.
This Lent, Pope Leo has invited us to give up “harsh words”—a powerful call in a world so often marked by division, cruelty, and fear. What a fitting Lenten practice for our time. Words have the power to wound, but they also have the power to heal, restore, and build bridges.
Cesar Chavez lived this Gospel truth. He chose compassion over anger, justice over indifference, and love over violence. He stood in solidarity with immigrants, farmworkers, and all those pushed to the margins—echoing Christ’s call to care for “the least of these.”
As we journey through Lent, may we:
Fast from harsh and hateful words
Pray for immigrants, workers, and families in need
Give generously of our time, resources, and voices
Work for justice with humility, mercy, and love
May this sacred season renew our hearts and strengthen our commitment to live the faith as Cesar did—rooted in Christ, guided by conscience, and grounded in love.
“Sí se puede” — with faith, compassion, and grace. ✝️🕊️