Living up to a Lofty Identity
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This coming Wednesday is Ash Wednesday and thus, 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 (8th Sunday in Ordinary Time) 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 not to be judgmental, but also a reminder to focus on our own flaws. Lent is an annual 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 helps us to seek God’s help to live up to such a lofty identity.
Reconciliation
Every Catholic should take the opportunity to go to Confession during Lent. In addition to the normal confession times, confessions will be heard on every Wednesday evening of Lent from 5:30 – 7:00PM, starting on Wednesday, March 9th.
Prayer + Community
Consider picking up one of the Lenten Companion journals by Fr. Mark Toups, available in the gathering space. Use them individually or as part of a small group. See our website (kcascension.org/adult-faith-catalog) for how to join a small group. We also have “The Word Among Us” daily devotionals available in the gathering space.
Men Under Construction
Men – don’t forget to attend Men Under Construction, the annual men’s gathering hosted here at Ascension on April 5th. Doors open at 6:45AM, opening Mass at 7:15AM. Go to the Men Under Construction website for more information or to register.
Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life,
