February 12, 2023

Dear Friends in Christ,

There is a well-known idiom that says, “First things first.” Following that advice, I draw your attention to the devastating earthquake that happened in the Middle East countries of Turkey and Syria. As I write this, the death toll from the quake is over 5000 with probably more losses to come. Let’s be united in our prayer for the people of Turkey and Syria, that the global community may unite in coming to their aid with the support they will need to recover from this catastrophe. Please also consider a gift to Catholic Relief Services to help their relief efforts in this devastated part of our world. Go to www.crs.org to support this outreach.
 
Looking ahead I want to remind you that Lent begins on February 22 with Ash Wednesday. This is what some have called, the annual “Spring Training of the Christian life.” Just like professional baseball teams, this is our opportunity to practice and drill on the basics of our faith in preparation for the great feast of Easter. Lent helps us get into top spiritual shape through the disciplines of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It renews the power of our baptism by drawing us closer into the death and resurrection of the Lord.

One of the powerful ways the church is renewed each year is by initiating new members into our Christian Community. Lent is the final time of preparation for those in our RCIA process to become Catholics. We have several older children who preparing to be baptized, and three adults already baptized in other Christian denominations who seek to enter into the full communion of our Catholic Church. Please pray for them during this special time in their spiritual journey. And please prayerfully consider how you and your family will observe Lent this year. Check our various parish communications for suggestions.

Blessings of peace,

Fr. William Heric, Pastor