Dear Sisters and Brothers in Faith:
We are about to embark on the season of Lent for
2016. The annual observance of Lent is the special
season for the ascent to the holy mountain of Easter.
Through its twofold theme of repentance and bap-
tism, the season of Lent disposes both the catechu-
mens and the faithful to celebrate the paschal mys-
tery. Catechumens are led to the sacraments of initi-
ation by means of the Rite of Election, the Scrutinies,
and catechesis. Unfortunately, we have no one in our
midst that will be entering into communion with the
Church this year. The faithful, listening more intently
to the word of God and devoting themselves to pray-
er, are prepared through a spirit of repentance to re-
new their baptismal promises.
Ash Wednesday, February 10, and Good Friday,
March 25, are days of fast and abstinence. All
Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence.
Fasting is to be observed by everyone 18 years of
age and older who have not yet celebrated their 59th
birthday. On a fast day one full meal is allowed. Two
other meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be
taken according to each one’s needs, but together
they should not equal another full meal. Eating be-
tween meals is not permitted, but liquids including
milk and juices, are allowed.
Abstinence is observed by all 14 years of age and
older. On days of abstinence no meat is allowed.
Note that when health or ability to work would be
seriously affected, the law does not oblige. When in
doubt concerning fast and abstinence, the pastor or
pastoral administrator should be consulted.
Fasting, almsgiving, and prayer are the three
traditional disciplines of Lent. The faithful of the
Church should undertake these practices seriously
in a spirit of penance and preparation for renewal of
baptism at Easter.
Thank you to all of you who have offered “Welcome
back” wishes to Joanne and me. We enjoyed a won-
derful break from winter at the ‘most magical place
on earth’, with temperatures in the low 80s most of
the time, and best of all, we had no symptoms of ill-
ness at all!
I hope you have a Christ-filled week!
St. Vincent de Paul, pray for us!
May the Holy Spirit always be with you.
Deacon Mike