What we’ve been waiting for….
This Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and the beginning of Holy Week. This celebration of days heightens our awareness of not only the events surrounding the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, but our invitation to participate in these actions which win our salvation. While we are spared the gruesome reality of watching him suffer, the recollection calls us to join the disciples in their engagement with these events. As we renew the sacrificial act of Christ, we are asked to consider our part in his passion. How have our sins contributed to the sufferings of Christ? How has our indifference added to the weight of the cross? How does our animosity, anger, or prejudice allow the dignity of humanity to be injured as Jesus falls again and again? Will I consider the generosity of forgiveness as Jesus forgives us from the cross? Am I even aware of my need of mercy before the generosity of a loving God?
What wondrous love is this, indeed?
I hope each family will make time for the celebration of these holy days by participating in some or all of our upcoming services. The timeless liturgical celebrations help to unite us with the mystical Body of the Church who has gathered for centuries to honor this time of year. Let us honor the gift poured out upon us by Christ, the gift of faith and the promise of salvation.
Holy Week Schedule;
Monday, March 30: Mass at 8 am; Confessions at St. Raphael’s from 6:30 pm until all are heard.
Tuesday, March 31: Mass at 8 am; Confessions at St. Gabriel’s from 6:30 pm until all are heard
Regular Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament with Benediction at 9:00 pm
Wednesday, April 1: Mass at 8 am; “Silhouette Stations” at St. Gabriel’s at 8 pm by Youth Group
Thursday, April 2: Morning Prayer at 8 am; Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 pm; Church open to 11 pm
Good Friday, April 3: Morning Prayer at 8 am; Stations of the Cross at 12:00 Noon
Passion of the Lord at 3:00 pm
Holy Saturday, April 4: Morning Prayer at 8 am; Easter Vigil at 8:00 pm
Easter Sunday, April 5: Masses offered at 6:30 am, 8:00 am, 10:00 am and 5:30 pm at St. Gabriel’s
(Yes, we really do have a 5:30 pm Mass on Easter Sunday; spread the word!)
Confirmation
Please join in prayer for our 8th Grade students receiving the gift of Confirmation on Thursday, April 9th from Archbishop Rozanski. May the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fill the lives of the young women and men.