The Lenten Journey 2010

Ash Wednesday, February 17

Masses at 6:15, 8:15 AM, Noon, 5:00, and 7:00 PM

A Lenten Almsgiving collection will be taken on Ash Wednesday at all Masses for PADS, the Elmhurst Walk–in Ministry and Catholic Charities.

Weekday Masses

One of the best ways to enter into the Lenten Season is to participate in daily Mass. Weekday Mass is celebrated at 6:15 and 8:15 AM, Monday-Friday, and at 8:15 AM on Saturday. If you are unable to attend daily Mass, take some time to reflect on the readings which are listed in the bulletin each week.

Stations of the Cross

The Stations of the Cross will be prayed on Wednesdays at 1:30 PM (with the school children) and on Fridays at 7:00 PM, followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Eucharistic Adoration

The Adoration Chapel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for quiet prayer and meditation.

Operation Rice Bowl

In the spirit of Lenten almsgiving, rice bowls are available at the entrances to the church. By donating the proceeds from our Lenten acts of self–denial, we follow the Lord’s command to care for the less fortunate.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

Lent is the primary season of reconciliation in the Church year and everyone is encouraged to receive this Sacrament during this time. This Sacrament is celebrated each Saturday from 4:00-5:00 PM Confessions will also be heard on the Sundays of Lent before the 8:30, 10:00 and 11:30 AM Masses.

Parish Mission

Fr. David Meconi, SJ, will lead our parish mission on March 21-22.

Lenten Regulations

Fasting: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of fast. This binds all Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59. On days of fast, one full meatless meal is allowed. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, although liquids, including milk and fruit juices, are allowed. When health or ability to work would be seriously affect- ed, the law does not oblige.

Abstinence: Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all the Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence for those over the age of 14. On these days, no meat is allowed. To disregard completely the law of fast and abstinence is seriously sinful.

Lenten Meal Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, may our Lenten fasting turn us toward all our brothers and sisters who are in need. Bless this table, our food and ourselves. Send us through Lent with good cheer, and bring us quickly to your passover. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.