Dear Parishioners,

We have begun our Lenten journey with the theme: Love In and Through the Cross. My hope for each of us is simple, that during these sacred days of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we will come to know more deeply how much God loves us.

This weekend's Gospel brings us into the desert with Jesus as He faces temptation. We see that His strength comes from His closeness to the Father. The same is true for us. Temptations are part of every human life, and they always will be. But even greater than temptation is God's powerful grace. We can be confident in His Word, which protects, guides, and saves us.

Lent invites us into the desert, not to weaken us, but to strengthen us, to deepen our awareness of God's love and our dependence on Him.

Lent is not meant to be rigorous for its own sake. It reminds us who we are: beloved sons and daughters of the Father. The spiritual practices of prayer, fasting and giving alms, are not about proving ourselves to God; they are about opening our hearts to the One who desires union with us through restoration, forgiveness, and mercy. He calls us to return to Him with our whole hearts.

After more than sixty years of walking the Lenten path, I can say that no two Lents are ever the same, if we truly enter them with trust and surrender. Each year the Lord gently reveals something within us that needs healing or growth. Lent becomes more than a season on the calendar; it becomes a time of renewal. When embraced with honesty and love, it is a sacred opportunity to let go of whatever keeps us from fully receiving Christ's saving love and the power of the Holy Spirit. Yes, Lent can be challenging, but it is a challenge that leads to growth and new life.

Please take time to look through the bulletin and our parish website for the many opportunities available this Lenten season. At first it may seem like a lot and it is. I encourage you to choose just one new practice this Lent. Perhaps join the Parish Prayer Challenge on the Hallow app, explore a series on FORMED, participate in a class or small group Scripture study, or take advantage of additional times for prayer, confession, and quiet reflection. As individuals, couples, and families, may each of us find a way to renew our hearts.

The center page of this bulletin continues our reflection on Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and his insight into the Four Loves, helping us understand more deeply that God is love. Over the coming weeks, we will build on this theme and allow our patron saint to guide us more deeply into the mystery of God's great love. Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, pray for us.

When we are strengthened by His love, we become stronger witnesses in our community and in the world. We share the Good News because we have come to know the Good News.

Please mark your calendar for our Parish Lenten Mission, March 9-11. Consider inviting a friend or family member to join you. We are blessed to welcome three Dominican Friars to lead us. I trust the Lord will pour out His grace in abundance during those days.

United in prayer for a holy Lent,

Fr. Fred

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