From the Pastor’s Desk

Dear Parishioners,

As the Christmas Season ended and I began preparations for Lent, I did not see the weeks of Lent filled with surgery,

therapy, and ice. I am not complaining. I had been in pain since Thanksgiving. I must admit this has been one of my

most reflective Lents. It became a time to pray without rushing, to reflect upon ministry and understand a little better

people who struggle with their health. Within my priesthood, I have been blessed with good health, and this is the first

time I have had to stop, place myself totally in the hands of others, and trust completely in God.

I thank every one of you for your prayers, your cards, encouragement, and understanding.

As Lent is drawing to a close, I want to reflect upon what Jesus was doing during the last days of what we call Holy

Week, before His Passion, Death, and Resurrection.

On that first day of the week, Jesus came into Jerusalem from the countryside. The city was excited with thousands of

pilgrims coming to celebrate at the Temple. Many had heard about Jesus and wanted to see Him. The streets were lined

with people who were crying out, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:1-11)

Perhaps it was Monday that Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus’ feet with fragrant oil. In tradition, it has been called

“Extravagant Monday” in remembrance of her act of worship. (John 12:1-11)

In the Gospel for Tuesday, we read how Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him three times. This sad event will

take place on Good Friday. (John 13:31-38)

Wednesday, the day before the Passover Meal, Judas met with the priest of the Temple and accepted thirty pieces of

silver in exchange for betraying Jesus. He then looked for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to the chief priests.

(Matthew 26:14-25)

Those were the ordinary days which led up to the Tridium of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil.

Jesus was busy preparing for what lay ahead.