FIRST WEEK OF LENT

As we finish this first week of Lent, how have you done?  During the Lenten season it is easy to spend a great deal of time and energy focusing on what we have 'given up.' Perhaps we should focus on the things that bring us closer to God. Last Sunday's readings challenge us to resist temptation and trust in God's love for us.  God loves us even in our sinfulness the question for us is can we accept this gift?

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What can I stick to for 40 days?

Ash Wednesday's here and of course, time to figure out what I should give up for Lent. Diet Coke? Dessert? Chocolate? Oh, who am I kidding? I'm never successful. I've tried and tried and I've never been strong enough to pull it off. Ok, I admit it. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but yes, I have no will power. I know I should be reflecting upon Jesus and how he gave his LIFE for us, and I seriously cannot give up my diet coke for a measly 40 days? I should call upon his strength to help me, and I have, but I am weak. Therefore, this year instead of beginning again something that I am destined to fail, I have decided to go a more positive route. I’m a busy working mother of three and between the school carpools, sports, homework, housework, my job, well hey- you all know the drill…my time is rather limited. But that being said, I want to use the time I do have to be more meaningful not only for my family and our relationships, but strengthening my spiritual relationship through prayer. Therefore, I have decided to say the rosary everyday through Lent. It’s the greatest blessing to be a mother. I thank God everyday for the blessings he has bestowed upon me and my family. I think at the very least I can carve out time in my day to pray the rosary. I hope the next 40 days of the rosary will give me greater spiritual nourishment and preparedness for Easter than my prior Lenten attempts have provided. So if you're like me and you don't want to fail again this year...consider joining me and pray the rosary. And if you're on the go all the time too- check out a convenient finger rosary (mine shown #10114 $4.95 ) to leave in your car. Have rosary- will travel! Now on the super busy days when I feel more like a taxi than anything else, I can still keep my commitment. Oh, and if you see a crazy lady sitting at the stop light next to you or on the school parking lot---sitting in her car praying the rosary--- well, hey, if you're sitting there too---why not join me? -Lara

MARDI GRAS ---'FAT TUESDAY'

Lent is quickly approaching and a few gentle reminders may be needed.
1. ABSTINENCE: All persons 14-59 years of age are to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday (Feb.17th) and all on Fridays of Lent.
2. FASTING: All persons 18-59 years of age are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Fasting is understood to mean eating one full meal and two partial meals.
3. PRAYER: All Catholics are urged to read and pray from sacred Scripture and/or to participate in other devotions. Pray more frequently and fervently, individually, as families and in common with others.
4.CHARITY: Support the charitable works of the church, including the ordinary stewardship within your parish.