Dear friends in Christ,
The season of Lent begins on February 17 with Ash Wednesday. This year, because of COVID-19 things will be modified:
- First, please remember that Ash Wednesday is not a holy day of obligation. No one is required to come to Mass that day.
- Second, we will be opening more sections of pews to increase seating capacity. A section of pews with greater distancing will remain.
- Third, the distribution of ashes will be different. The acclamation will be said once, over the entire congregation "REPENT AND BELIEVE IN THE GOSPEL," then as you come forward to receive ashes, a small amount will be sprinkled on the crown of your head. When the minister says "Amen" you may proceed back to your seat.
- Fourth, fasting and abstinence from meat is required on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Abstinence from meat is observed on each Friday of Lent.
Mass times/locations: Wednesday, Feb 17
9 a.m., St. Patrick's, Fullerton
6:30 p.m., St. Helena, Ellendale
A Reflection from Father...
What should I do for Lent? This is a difficult question. Have you run-out of good ideas? As Ash Wednesday approaches, I propose the following ideas.
We can formulate specific intentions for Lent; but we should also consider the intentionality behind them. I won’t tell you what practices/sacrifices to make, but here are three reasons why for your prayer, fasting and almsgiving this year:
- The Church: that our bishops, priests and deacons will have God’s wisdom and courage.
- Government leaders: That they will use their authority wisely, and recall that they possess authority, not power. That their authority will help those in their care to flourish.
- Family: To be protected from so many attacks. To reunite the estranged. For the lukewarm and fallen-away. For the strengthening of married life.
Finally, write down the specific names of people you are going to pray for.
May your intentions have intentionality!