The Church pointed out that next Wednesday is the start of Holy Lent, 40 days of prayer and penitence in preparation for the remembrance of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It pointed out also that during this period its members should read the word of God and take part in spiritual exercises. There should also be personal sacrifices and acts of charity, which could include hearing Mass on weekdays, abstinence from alcoholic drinking and smoking, and abstaining from some form of entertainment. The faithful could also do the Via Sagra, pray with the family, cut down on expenditure and be charitable with the needy, and visit the sick or elderly people who were alone.

The Church said that on Ash Wednesday and on Good Friday, those aged between 18 and 59 years and who had no medical reason not to, should fast.

Those aged over 14 should abstain from eating meat or preferred food.