Our Lenten
Journey
Sunday, March 10, 2019 — First Sunday of Lent
On Ash Wednesday we
entered a different kind of time; perhaps the image of journey would be more
apt. We are walking towards the Easter Triduum and the Easter celebrations to
follow. However, the journey itself will be important, not just the
destination. For example, today we remember how Jesus was in the desert for 40
days, and united to Him, we pray that for the next 40 days we focus on turning
away from worldly attachments and allow our hearts to be more open to God.
We prepare ourselves with
penance (like giving something up), and abstaining from meat on Fridays; we
prepare also with more time for prayer, and by choosing to practice more often
the works of mercy. There are seven spiritual works of mercy and seven corporal
works of mercy. I invite you to look them up.
The “Collect” or opening
prayer from to-day’s Mass asks of God that by way of the various Lenten
observances, “we may grow in understanding of the riches hidden in Christ and
by worthy conduct pursue their effects.” Lenten observances are much more than
an exercise in self-control; they are meant to open us up to the richness of
grace found in Christ.
Another good thing to do
for yourself this Lent would be to do an examination of conscience and
participate in the sacrament of reconciliation. We're supposed to partake of
this sacrament at least once a year. Several of you already did so on the first
night of the Parish Mission two weeks ago. I still have not received the list
of penance services in our neighboring parishes, but I will make it available
here once I receive it. However, please remember we offer the sacrament of
reconciliation every Saturday at 4:30 PM.
God Bless,
Fr. Carlos, OSA.
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