Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Our Lenten journey begins this week as we observe Ash Wednesday, Once again, we are offering many opportunities for you to share in the Liturgy of the Word and receive ashes. While there is no requirement to be marked with ashes, it is a noble statement of one’s intention to enter into Lent with a new purpose and a focus on conversion of mind and heart. Given the current world situation, it is good that we take this Lenten opportunity to sacrifice for the cause of world peace. 

The US bishops invited the parishes to observe a Holy Hour for Peace and we incorporated that into a Holy Hour with the school last Thursday. I felt it a good example for our students to participate in a time to pray for peace, offering them a glimmer of hope in the midst of a challenging world. I want to thank Deacon Anthony and the school community for adapting the rite for the students and leading them in prayer. 

Of course, this week is also Mardi Gras/Shrove Tuesday/Fastnacht Day, or whatever you call it in your own cultural heritage. Enjoy what you can as, remember, Wednesday is a day of Fast and Abstinence. All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence as well. Check the bulletin for more information on the Lenten requirements. 

All of our usual Lent offerings are in place this year. Soup and Scripture begins next week, February 25, with Deacon Anthony as our speaker. Other speakers include:
Mar 4 - Dr Michele McCue (Trinity Hall); Mar 11 - Fred DiBrienza (CBA); Mar 18 - Lori McCahill (St. Benedict’s); Mar 25 - Bill Kusch (SJV); and I am still working on April 1, though I may want to do that one myself. Remember that Soup and Scripture follows Stations of the Cross, which begin at 5:30 pm.  Stations begin this coming Friday, February 20 starting at 5:30 as well. 

Hopefully, we see this snow melt and signs of Spring pop around us. Forget the groundhog!

Enjoy the President’s weekend holiday.

Father Garry