Dear Parishioners, We are now in the midst of Lent. Very often we call it the “40” of Lent. There is a strong Biblical foundation for observing a 40 day period of more intense prayer, fasting and almsgiving (we should be doing these things year round). The Scriptures are full of the significance of the number 40. Click the title to read more.
Dear Parishioners, Lent is a time of prayer and sacrifice in union with Christ. Everything we do, we do in imitation of and for Jesus. Like him, during Lent, we pray, fast, and give alms. Almsgiving is one of the three pillars of Lent. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that it is “a witness to fraternal charity and a work of justice pleasing to God.” During Lent, we are asked to focus more intently on almsgiving by donating to the poor and performing acts of charity. Click the title to read more.
Dear Parishioners, Our first week of Lent is complete. I hope that everyone’s Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are going well. Do not be discouraged if you missed a resolution or two. Often, we are tempted to give up the race to the finish line of Easter if we stumble early (or late). Instead, simply begin again and ask God’s help. Just like the loaves and the fishes, our Lord can multiply our efforts even at the last minute. Click the title to read more.
Dear Parishioners, Lent has officially begun. If you could not tell I really enjoy the Season of Lent for many reasons. For one, it gives me the motivation to take my spiritual life deeper. I remember when I was in seminary I found putting time aside for study difficult. So I would go and study with my classmates. Studying in the company of others made the act much easier. The Church takes that human need for community and applies it to facets of the spiritual life. Catholics throughout the world for the next several weeks will all be engaged in acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. We do not experience Lent alone and that idea can be a powerful motivator. Click the Title to read more.