We are already into the Lenten season. The ashes we received on Ash Wednesday remind us of Christ’s call to repentance as expressed in the words said during their imposition: “Turn away from sin and believe in the Gospel!” Borrowing the words of Paul, we can say, “Lent is the acceptable time, a time of grace.” As we begin this holy season, I would like to invite the whole parish to embark on a journey of conversion and spiritual renewal.
In three days we will celebrate Ash Wednesday. The ashes we receive remind us that we want to put on an attitude of humble submission and sincere sorrow. The word used in the Scriptures for conversion is “metanoia” which means “change of heart.” The project of Lent is all about change – change of heart, change of attitude and change of behavior. During this time of grace, we seek to move away from our sinful ways and align ourselves with the standards of the Gospel.
As a young seminarian, I learned Scholastic philosophy, especially the perennial wisdom of St Thomas Aquinas. Armed with the knowledge of philosophy and theology, I was pretty sure of myself in the early years of my priesthood. Things were clearly defined. Moral issues were clear-cut, black and white. I was convinced that I could convince anyone with my powerful arguments and make them embrace our Catholic Faith. After my ordination, I was rearing to go into the world to make converts.
During these weeks, parishes in the archdiocese are conducting the Annual Catholic Appeal which raises funds for the various ministries and outreach programs of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The theme of this year’s drive is: “Come and follow me… and bring hope to the world.” God’s house is made up of living stones and each one of us contributes to this organism called the Church. In that sense, we are responsible for each other. We belong to one family.
It is no exaggeration to claim that in recent memory humanity has not seen as much suffering as we are undergoing right now. This pandemic has not only disrupted our lives. It has also destroyed lives and livelihoods. People have died alone and the virus has caused untold misery to millions around the world. In the midst of such pain and suffering, someone may ask, “Why does God permit this? Is there any value to this suffering?” In order to respond to these questions, we need to turn to the Cross.
The Baptism of the Lord ushers in the closure of the Christmas season and we step into Ordinary Time. With all our attention on Christmas and New Year’s, we can easily overlook the significance of the Baptism of Our Lord. The Lord’s baptism was a crucial moment in the life of Jesus, and it also has serious implications for us, the baptized.
Mission Statement: As children of God, living in a Catholic community of faith, we are united by the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Aware that all we have is gift and grace from our Heavenly Father, we strive to give of our time, talent and treasure to build His kingdom on earth. We live this mission, challenged by the Word, nurtured by the Sacraments, and enlivened by the Spirit, to serve our brothers and sisters in peace, justice and dignity. All are welcome on this journey.
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Saturday
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Sunday
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Friday
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8:30 am - Upper Church
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