(Bratislava) – St. Faustyna Kowalska, St. John Paul II, St. Padre Pio and other saints “participate” in the Lenten “spiritual retreat via SMS” in the Czech Republic. Indeed, the Diocese of Ostrava-Opava has launched a Lenten project involving the sending of daily text messages inspired by the thoughts and reflections of saints on the topic of mercy. Special attention is dedicated to acts of love and service to our neighbours. Registration is open on the website http://pust.doo.cz. “In this way, we want to help people to have a deeper, more intense preparation for Easter”, explains Fr. Vit Zatloukal, vicar for pastoral care in the diocese. The Lenten service is also available via e-mail. Although the main focus is to inspire Catholics, it is not uncommon that people of other faiths also show interest in the project. “Words of natural wisdom know no borders and are not limited to any religion. Mercy is something that all people of good will should reflect upon and integrate into their everyday lives”, says one of the recipients of the service. The cycle of inspirational text messages will culminate during the Holy Week with thoughts from Pope Francis.