Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This coming Wednesday is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Season of Lent. Lent is our annual opportunity to embrace the penitential practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The six weeks of Lent afford the opportunity to spiritually prepare for the commemoration of the saving events of the Lord’s passion, death and resurrection that we celebrate at Easter.
The Gospel passage for this weekend asks the question, “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? Not only is it an appeal from the Lord to avoid being judgmental, but also a reminder to focus on our own flaws. Lent affords the opportunity to look into the mirror and evaluate one’s priorities, choices and behaviors in light of the Gospel. By bearing the name “Christian” we claim to be children of God and disciples of Jesus. Lent prompts us to seek God’s help to live up to such lofty identities.
Every Catholic should take the opportunity to go to Confession during Lent. Here at Ascension, we offer several opportunities for sacramental confession. See the front page of the bulletin for our regular confession times (note, there are no confessions on Ash Wednesday itself). Penance services at all the parishes in Johnson County will take place during the week of April 6 -13th, with Ascension’s service taking place on April 8th at 7pm.
Stations of the Cross will be offered on Fridays of Lent at 5pm. You can come to Stations of the Cross and then partake of the Knights of Columbus Fish Fry in the parish hall. Consider picking up one of the Magnificat Lenten Companions located in the gathering space, along with other Lenten resources. Watch the bulletin for other Lenten opportunities.
Lastly, men don’t forget to attend Men Under Construction, the annual men’s gathering hosted here at Ascension on March 8th. See details in the bulletin today. Have a transformative Lent!
Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life,
