We have started the 40 days of Lent, our solemn preparation for Easter. In the Gospel on Ash Wednesday, Jesus gave us the three things we should do during Lent, Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. To help us pray a little more, we have several prayer aids in the foyer. There are Lenten Calendars for
, children and teens. There is an Ash Wednesday holy card. There is a small booklet with daily recollections. To help with fasting or eating less, there is a small magnet for your refrigerator. For helping the poor, you might use the Rice Bowls that go to Catholic Relief Services at the end of Lent or just be more generous to those in need.
At our last Parochial Council Meeting, we discussed at length the make up of the Council. The Council meets once a month after the 10:30 AM Mass to discuss what’s going on in the parish. The Council advises me, the pastor, on what is happening and on things we might try. The meetings usually last from 12:15 – 1:45 PM. Sometimes they don’t even last that long. We are looking for some new members. If you are interested, please talk to a Council member about this. The list is on the front of the Bulletin. If enough people show interest, we will probably have some new appointments to the Council and maybe even an election later in the year. Remember any parishioner can attend any Council meeting.
In our first reading today, Moses receives his calling from God in the burning bush and he learns God’s name: “I AM who am.”
In our Gospel today, Jesus calls for repentance and ends this section calling to mind a fig tree that doesn’t give fruit, telling us the owner gives it one last chance. Repentance leads to forgiveness, which should lead to producing good fruit.
In our second reading, St. Paul tells us about the People of God who were blessed with freedom but died in the desert because they grumbled against God. The last line is sobering: Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.” When we ignore God’s blessings, we too fall.
Let us continue to pray for peace in the world. Let us also pray for vocations to the church. Let us pray for the sick of the parish. Let us pray that all will come to respect life. Let us pray for one another and for the canonization of Father olton. Let us also pray for those who are victims of sexual abuse and mass shootings.
A Father Tolton Prayer:Father in Heaven, Father Tolton’s suffering service sheds light upon our sorrows; we see them through the prism of your Son’s passion and death. If it be your Will, O God, glorify your servant Father Tolton, by granting the favor I now request through his intercession (mention your request) so that all may know the goodness of this priest whose memory looms large in the Church he loved. Complete what you have begun in us that we might work for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Not to us the glory, but glory to you O God, through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are our God, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.