Dear Parish Family:
Welcome to the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. This weekend we continue to journey with Jesus as he proclaims the Sermon on the Mount. The Lord encourages us to keep God’s laws through rigorous and exceptional behavior. The wisdom of Sirach reminds us that we have the ability to live by God’s commands and that ability always comes from God’s help. In a world wounded by division, violence and fear let’s come before the Lord this weekend and pray that the Prince of Peace will overshadow us!
Last weekend our Parish generosity was again displayed as over $52,000 was pledged for Together in Mission. Our goal is $88,650. Many of you mailed in the pledge card and so we will have final numbers in a few weeks. This weekend is the follow up Sunday and we will invite those who did not have an opportunity to participate to fill out a pledge card. Your generosity will help us take care of our most needy schools and parishes in our local church. Thank you!!
If you’re reading this on Saturday, Happy Valentine’s Day to you and may the love of Saint Valentine permeate all your relationships in life!
The great season of Lent commences with this Ash Wednesday, February 18. Our liturgy schedule including the distribution of ashes is just before this column. The church’s guidelines and regulations regarding fasting and abstinence during the Lenten season are posted below. Between now, and Ash Wednesday, we are invited as a community to reflect on how we are going to be faithful to the three traditions of Lent: Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. Lent is not a self-help program but an opportunity for us to support and pray for each other in our Lenten choices so that we can make a difference in our families, church, nation and the world!
Please mark your calendars to attend an evening of reflection with Sr. Eva and I on March 17th to be followed by a celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day in our Center. Our annual Lenten Penance Service with several visiting priests will take place on March 24th, at 7:00PM. More information on these events as they draw near.
I’m praying for you and your families during this Lent!
Happy Lent,
Msgr. Kevin