The resource page features Scripture readings for each day during Lent, a virtual Stations of the Cross, a Lenten calendar, Lenten guidelines on fasting and abstinence, information about Operation Rice Bowl, and a Lenten message from Pope Benedict XVI.

“This is the first time we’ve  run a Lenten resource page on our diocesan Web site,” said Michael Hoerner, Webmaster for the Springfield diocese. “I have seen it in the past on a couple of other diocesan Web sites and thought it would be a good feature to add to ours.”

Hoerner said that he believes a diocesan Web site should offer not only information and statistics about parishes, schools and Curia offices, but should also help people understand why Catholics hold certain traditions and what those traditions mean. “My goal this year is to try to make the diocesan Web site a better resource for our faith,” said Hoerner.

“I thought Lent would be a logical place to start,” he said. “I think it will be the first of a series of four or five traditions that I will highlight either through information directly on our site or through a link to the Web site.”  

The Lenten resource will be available through the Lenten season, which this year runs until April 1, which is Holy Thursday and the beginning of the Easter triduum.