From The Pastor: 3-11-2018

Our Lenten Parish Penance Service will be celebrated next Sunday night, March 18, at 7:00 pm.  Lent is a time for us to acknowledge our sins and to turn back to the Lord.  For us Catholics, we are privileged to have this wonderful Sacrament of Reconciliation.  For those   who go frequently, you understand what a grace this Sacrament truly is.  For those who have not been there for a while, may you return to this beautiful Sacrament without fear or trepidation.  You are meeting the merciful Lord in confession and he is always “slow to anger and rich in compassion.”  It is good to make an examination of conscience before you go in to confess your sins.  The priest will help you if it has been a long time.  Tell the priest how long it has been since your last confession and confess your sins.  Give an idea of how many times you have committed your sins.  It also helps if you tell the priest what your state in life is (single, married, widowed, religious, etc.)  Listen carefully to the priest’s advice and the penance he gives you.  Make an Act of Contrition (the one you learned as a child is fine or you can pray it from the heart).  Hear the words of absolution and truly believe that your sins are forgiven.  Make use of this Sacrament as often as you can (and you need!)  You will not regret it!

Father Al

P.S. I am happy to share that a name has been selected for the meeting space in the old parish offices and Meeting Room C. This space will now be known as the “Holy Family Center”.