Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Dear Fellow Parishioners of St. Benedict:

Holy Week quickly approaches as we celebrate what was traditionally the Passion Sunday, our readings shift the focus from the call to conversion to the mission of Christ in the world for the salvation of souls and the reparation of sins. Next Sunday is Palm Sunday and we begin then the journey into the Triduum. The blessing and distribution of Palms at each of the Masses provides us with the prop for the journey. A simple palm leaf, allowing us to shout Hosanna to the Son of David. It will also stand as our guard against the cruel statement of disbelief that will resonate throughout our churches on Good Friday: “Crucify Him!” May this journey be for each one of us an occasion to enter more deeply into the walk of faith, as we share in the Passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. 

The 11:00 am Mass next Sunday will begin in the Gym, with the proclamation of the First Gospel and the distribution of Palms. We will then process to the Church for the Announcement of the Passion and the celebration of the Eucharist. Easter Sunday brings a change to the normal Sunday schedule, so please note carefully: The Easter Vigil is Saturday at 8:00 pm with NO 5:00 pm Mass. Easter Sunday begins with the Sunrise Mass at 6:30 am celebrated (weather permitting) in the courtyard in front of the church. We then follow with Mass at 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 am, and 12:30 pm. The latter Mass is the children’s liturgy that weekend. There is NO 5:00 pm Mass on Easter Sunday.

Soup and Scripture continues this week after Stations of the Cross on Wednesday. William Kusch from St. John Vianney High School will be our speaker. 

If you missed the Penance Service here last Sunday, the parish of St. Mary in Colts Neck has one today beginning at 3:00 pm. St. Gabriel Penance Service is on Wednesday, April 1st at 7:00 pm.

There is still time to make a contribution for Easter flowers. Also, please consider a donation to the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Sister Debbie Drago is here this weekend to speak on the work of the Collier School in Wickatunk. We are grateful for the work of the sisters there and are happy to support their mission. 

I hope that everyone has a blessed week ahead, 
Fr. Garry