Dear Friends:
Now that the Christmas season has come to an end, we return to a brief period of Ordinary Time. Ordinary Time is, in fact, the longest season in the liturgical year, a season focuses on the mystery of Christ in general and not on particular poignant moments of his life. As we make our way through these weeks, we will be reading, this year, from the Gospel of Mark, which is the oldest of the four gospels. Mark is noted for his short, blunt, and unpolished style, but his gospel served as the basis for Matthew and Luke to write their own account.
A good reminder to all is that we should spend time in quiet prayer when we come to church and not engage in banter or conversation with those around us. This is distracting to those who like to pray. One can always ask for a phone number after Mass or spend a few moments then to catch up outside of the church. A suggestion might be in order: pick up the hymnal and read over the readings for the Mass. You might also look over the hymns for the celebration as well.
In a few weeks time, just five or so, we will begin the season of Lent. Easter comes early this year, on March 31. We will have a full schedule of Lenten devotions and activities. The schedule will appear in the bulletin on January 28 and on-line as well. Ash Wednesday is February 14.
I want to thank all of you for your generous support of the parish throughout the past year. We have done well financially and we have exercised due diligence fiscally. Your generosity shown in support of the Giving Tree endeavor during Advent is also notable. Many needy people were helped by your thoughtfulness. I also want to thank all who supported the Annual Collection. The final results came in just shy of $70,000, almost ten thousand dollars over our goal. The new statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph have arrived at St. Agnes. They will be placed in their proper places and formally blessed by me at the 10:30 AM Mass on Sunday, January 21.
Finally, Deacon John is away for a few weeks of well-deserved rest and vacation. He will return on or about February 1.
Have a good week!