Dear Friends,
The first Listening session in preparation for transition of leadership of St. Matthias to a new Pastor, according to the Diocese, was pretty well attended. The second Listening session is tomorrow (Monday, March 10) at 7 PM in the Church. All are invited.
In the midst of the steps for leadership change, we focus on our Lenten journey we began on Ash Wednesday. “Giving up” some food item for Lent is something many do. That is a good and admirable sacrifice that brings us discipline and self-control. While doing that, can we also consider giving up certain unhealthy habits in order bring about better relationship with others?
GIVE UP grumbling! Instead, “In everything give thanks.” Constructive criticism is OK, but “moaning, groaning, and complaining” are not Christian disciplines.
GIVE UP 10 to 15 minutes in bed! Instead, use that time in prayer, Bible study and personal devotion.
GIVE UP looking at other people’s worst points. Instead concentrate on their best points. We all have faults. It is a lot easier to have people overlook our shortcomings when we overlook theirs first.
GIVE UP your worries and anxieties! Instead, trust God with them. Anxiety is spending emotional energy on something we can do nothing about: like tomorrow! Live today and let God’s grace be sufficient.
GIVE UP TV one evening a week! Instead, visit some lonely or sick person. There are those who are isolated by illness or age. Why isolate yourself in front of the “tube?” Give someone a precious gift: your time!
GIVE UP buying anything but essentials for yourself! Instead, give the money to God. The money you would spend on the luxuries could help someone meet basic needs. We are called to be stewards of God’s riches, not consumers.
GIVE UP judging by appearances and by the standard of the world! Instead, learn to give up yourself to God. There is only one who has the right to judge, Jesus Christ. (“What to Give up for Lent” by Craig Gates, Jackson, MS)
The Parish Retreat next Saturday 9 AM to 12 PM (March 15) is something that will make Lent special. Our presenter is Sr. Terry Rickard OP, PhD, who is a conference speaker, retreat leader, preacher, and author. She holds a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Aquinas Institute of Theology in
St. Louis, Missouri. The theme is: “Hope Renewed: A Lenten Path to New Life.” Come and renew your hope in the midst of chaos and suffering in our world. This retreat will explore hope grounded in resurrection faith. Come as you are, but leave feeling refreshed, spiritually uplifted, and ready to continue the Lenten journey from the cross to the resurrection with a heart full of hope.
Let us all make this a meaningful and fruitful Lent!
Your brother in Christ,
Fr. Abraham Orapankal