Rachel Goldberg Polin: Prayers for blessed Lent, quick return of Israeli hostages

By Devin Watkins

As Christians celebrated Ash Wednesday, the leader of the families of Israeli hostages, Rachel Goldberg Polin, took the time to record a video message at the beginning of Lent.

Her video was released on the 131st day of since her son’s kidnapping by Hamas, indicated by the number taped to her shirt recalls the days since Hersh was taken from her.

Hersh’s whereabouts in Gaza, and that of over 100 other hostages, remains unknown.

In her video, Rachel thanked her Christian “neighbors and friends” for their support for the family of hostages.

She recalled the significance of Lent as a 40-period of repentance and self-reflection that prepares us for Easter.

She also expressed her best-wishes for a fruitful Lenten season, and invited everyone to pray for the swift return of Hersh and all hostages still held by Hamas.

Previously, on December 23, Rachel had wished Pope Francis a healthy and happy Christmas in a video.

In her Christmas message, she thanked the Pope for his concern for all God's children and his prayers for lasting peace.

On November 22, Rachel had the chance to personally thank the Pope for his compassion towards the hostages' families during an audience in the Vatican.