So many things to say this week, so little space in my bulletin column to say them, but here’s a try:
Our young adult ministry had their first gala last Saturday. It was a spectacular event that featured more than 100 guests, a beautiful tribute to Chris Otis, great food, a DJ that had everyone on the dance floor, fantastic silent auction items from generous donors, and an overall feeling of celebration of God blessing our inspiring young adults.
We have been asked to help our brothers and sisters who rely on the New Covenant Center for food by donating to the
March 1 food drive in our parking lot. Recent funding cuts have limited the regular grocery delivery to New Covenant, and we are being asked to fill the empty shelves. Thanks for helping on Saturday, March 1.
We will have the “in-pew” drive for the Annual Bishop’s Appeal this weekend. The “ABA” provides the funds to support some of our diocesan ministries: education, retired priests, religious education, the many social services provided by Catholic Charities, and more. At the Saturday evening Mass and the 7:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, Megan and Mark Mooney, this year’s diocesan chairs of the Annual Bishop’s Appeal will talk about the appeal after the homily. I will speak at the other Masses, and I’ll ask you to consider a gift and complete the pledge form in the pew. Kindly place the pledge form in the collection basket and the diocese will take it from there. Thanks, in advance, for supporting the charities and parish resources of our diocese!
Lent begins next week. This penitential season is an opportunity for us to turn inward and reflect as we embrace the three pillars of Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Our “Ashes to Easter” booklet contains the many ways we can pray, study, and serve as we prepare for Easter. As I pray about my own Lenten fasting, I am moved to do a technology fast – spending less time on my phone and laptop and using the “found” time for face-to-face conversation and spiritual reading. Lately I realized that I’m spending too much time scrolling the news and winding up more anxious than ever. I believe that limiting my screen time will be more life-giving. Please consider joining me in this fast.
Thanks for reading this potpourri of ponderings. I pray you will have a blessed week and a holy Lenten season!
Yours in Christ,
