Filipino Bishops launch Lenten website

(Feb. 22, 2012) The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, CBCP, says it will have another feature for its Lenten season website this year: online retreats. Monsignor Pedro Quitorio, the CBCP media office director, said the online retreat will be available on visitaiglesia.net starting on Sunday. “These are video reflections that will serve as alternative catechesis to those who are unable to attend Lenten retreats,” Msgr Quitorio said during the website’s launch on Wednesday. However, he emphasized that an online retreat is no substitute for spending a few days in a “monastic atmosphere.” Msgr Quitorio said retreats are important because they help the faithful understand the meaning of the Lenten season. “Catholics are invited to reflect on themselves and prepare for the coming celebration of Holy Week,” he added. Other features on the site include podcast reflections, blogs of bishops, priests, Religious, and lay people.