As Lent continues...

03-08-2020From Fr. Antony's DeskFr. John Barbella

I want to start by thanking everyone who came to the Parish Meeting in Mercy Hall last Sunday. It was a pleasure for me to speak about our parish with everyone there. Our parish is blessed to have some very dedicated and supportive people who care deeply about it. They are an inspiration to me.

Remember that we will have fellowship in Mercy Hall following the 9 and 11am Masses next Sunday. It is good to share some time with other parishioners, and to enjoy a cup of coffee and some snacks with them. Such gatherings remind us that, as Catholics, we belong to a family of faith that extends beyond ourselves.

The news these days is full of stories about public health. With people concerned about everything, from common things like colds and the flu to the new coronavirus, it seems that some common sense recommendations are in order. It is certainly OK to simply wave to those around you at the Sign of Pearce, if you are concerned about shaking hands. Also, anyone who does not feel well should not receive from the chalice, which is simple common sense. Finally, remember that, while we have a serious obligation to attend Mass on Sunday (or Saturday evening), we are dispensed from that obligation when we are ill. Please keep these things in mind, especially during this time of year!

As Lent continues, please take the opportunity to attend some of our Lenten devotions. I was pleased to see a nice crowd for the Stations on the first Friday of Lent. I hope that all of you will get to the stations at some time before Lent is over. You may also wish to attend one of the Lenten Benedictions on Wednesday evenings at 7pm. They are a good way to spend some time in prayer and hear a Lenten homily that will hopefully give you some spiritual food for thought this Lent.

Most of all, remember to make a good Confession before Lent is over. Two priests will be on duty at our regular Confession times (Saturday 9-9:30am and 3:15-4:15pm). We will also have a Penance Service with many visiting Confessors on Monday, March 23rd at 7pm. Finally, we will hear Confessions during the 24 Hours for Jesus on Friday, March 20th, after Stations of the Cross, from 7:30pm-8:30pm. I hope that this will help you find a time to make a good Confession this Lent.

There are some Lenten booklets left over in the back of the Church. They are simple reading, with a thought or prayer from St. Theresa of Calcutta (Mother Theresa) for each day of Lent. There is also a Spanish language booklet, with daily thoughts from Pope Francis. Please take one and use it this Lent.

Last Sunday evening I had dinner at my sister Natalie’s home. It was nice to visit with she and my brother in law. I hadn’t seen them in a while and it was nice to get caught up.

Please pray a Hail Mary for me today and every day, and be assured of my daily prayers for you!

Have a great week!

Fr. John

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