FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
GROWING IN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST THIS LENT
Following are some suggestions from the Diocese of La Crosse Office of Catechesis to deepen our relationship with God this Lenten season. There are many ways to deepen our prayer life, but first and foremost, is giving of ourselves and making a specific time for prayer. If we just fit it in when we can, other things will continue to come up and interfere. This Lent, give yourself time to be with God in prayer every day.
Weeks 1 and 2 of Lent: Reflecting on God’s Infinite and Unconditional Love commit to a 15- minute prayer time for each of the three Scripture passages below, praying with one Scripture per day, in the order given. It is often helpful to use a journal or notebook to write down any inspirations received. Repeat the same process in Week Two. Begin your prayer time by asking for this specific grace: “Dear Lord, please grant me the grace of a deeper experience of your personal love for me.” You will not only come to know that God is love, but experience God’s personal love for you as a unique son or daughter. Suggested Scripture for Weeks 1 and 2:
❏ Luke 1:26-38 Mary’s “Yes” allows the Savior to come into the world.
❏ Luke 2:1-20 God becomes man to save me.
❏ Luke 2:41-50 Jesus is eager to begin His Father’s will.
Bless me, Father, for I have sinned...
If you haven't gone to confession in a while, Lent is the perfect time to reconcile yourself with God and the Church. Following is a good preparation for confession:
Preparation for confession should include an examination of conscience, which means you think back on sins you have committed since your last confession.
What happens during confession depends on the priest and the person. Most people still start with the formula: "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been (state the number of months or years) since my last confession."
If you can't remember the words or you don't recall how long it's been, don't worry. Just tell the priest it's been a long time, and he will guide you through the process.
What you will experience is the healing gift of God's love, the chance to start over with a clean conscience, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
Did you know...Pretzels: A Lenten treat
Pretzels originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. A monk was making unleavened bread for Lent with flour and water because eggs, milk and lard were not consumed as part of the Lenten fast. He twisted some of the dough into the shape of people praying with both arms folded across their chests. He decided it would be a perfect treat for children learning to say their prayers. He called the treats pretiola, the Latin word for "little reward."
Praying for a Blessed Lent for all
Fr. Jim
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