Dear Brothers & Sisters,

We are continuing our journey through this Lenten season. As we have talked about,
this is a season of grace for us, an opportunity for deeper conversion and allowing the Lord to work in us in a deeper way. Recognizing our weaknesses should not lead us to discouragement but rather to a deeper appreciation of God’s great love for us. As we move into the month of March, I would like to commend to you all, once again that you make every effort to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation before Easter. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a great gift for us and is a vehicle of God’s grace in our lives. As Catholics, we are bound by an obligation to faithfully confess serious sins at least once a year (Catechism 1457). More frequent confession, however, can be an invaluable help in our relationship with the Lord and with our brothers and sisters.

Many people, however, find the thought of going to confession nerve-wracking, either because they feel ashamed or embarrassed or perhaps it has been awhile and they are not sure what to do. This is a great time to take courage and to approach the sacrament afresh. We have regular confession on Saturday afternoon at 4:00pm and on Tuesdays at 6:00pm before the 6:30 Mass. We will also have our Lenten Penance Service on Thursday, March 15, at 6:30pm.

I also want to invite you to an event called “Cor Jesu” (Latin for heart of Jesus). On Friday, March 23, after Stations of the Cross, we will spend a special time of Eucharistic Adoration -- a time to rest in the heart of Jesus. This time will also include a period of what is called “praise & worship” which is a more contemporary form of prayer. I will also be available for confession during that time. This will be a wonderful opportunity to prepare for the great celebration of Easter and I ask you all to make time for this in your schedule. It will be a blessed time.

God bless,
Fr. Tony