As we approach the holy season of Lent, I invite you to begin preparing your hearts for this

sacred time of prayer, sacrifice, and renewal. Lent officially begins on February 18, and it

offers us a beautiful opportunity to slow down, turn back to God, and deepen our relationship with Him.

An important part of our Lenten observance is the practice of fasting and abstinence, which

helps us discipline our bodies and refocus our hearts on God. Catholics ages 18 to 59 are required to fast on

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, meaning one full meal with two smaller meals that together do not equal a

full meal. Catholics age 14 and older are required to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and on all Fridays

during Lent. These practices are not meant to burden us, but to remind us that our true hunger is for the Lord.

Those who are unable to fast due to health or other serious reasons are encouraged to make another meaningful sacrifice.

This weekend we also begin the Catholic Charities Appeal, which gives us a meaningful opportunity to practice almsgiving, one of the three traditional pillars of Lent. Through our generosity, we help serve the poor,

the vulnerable, and those in need throughout our diocese. I encourage you to prayerfully consider supporting

the Appeal as a tangible expression of Christ’s love for others.

One special way to enter more fully into Lent this year is through extended Eucharistic Adoration, beginning

February 25, immediately following the 8:30 AM Mass. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed until 6:00

PM, giving us extra time to sit quietly with the Lord, bring Him our burdens, and listen for His gentle voice.

Even a few minutes in His presence can transform our hearts.

Throughout Lent, we will also pray the Stations of the Cross every Friday. Stations will be held after the 8:30

AM Mass, and again at 7:00 PM on Friday evenings during Lent. I encourage individuals and families to

make this devotion part of their Lenten journey as we walk with Christ on His path to Calvary.

We are also blessed to welcome The One Live Experience to our parish on February 22 and February 23.

This powerful and engaging event invites us to encounter Jesus in a fresh and meaningful way and serves as a

wonderful way to prepare our hearts for Lent.

To help you follow all of our Lenten opportunities, Lenten calendars are available in the Gathering Space and

at the side doors. I encourage you to take one home and use it as a guide throughout this holy season.

Lent is not about doing more for the sake of doing more, but about creating space for God to work in us.

Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, may we allow the Lord to renew our hearts and prepare us for the

joy of Easter.

May God bless you abundantly as we begin this sacred season together.