February 1, 2010
Dear Parishioners and friends of St. Bernard Church,
As we enter February, we rejoice that we are one month closer to warmer weather and the resurgence of spring. As much as we anticipate what awaits us in the future, we need to also embrace the reality of where we are today. With the rising of a new day, we thank Him for allowing us the moments we are graced with. In a similar fashion, as we enter February we anticipate with joy the coming of the celebrations of Easter. Prior to its arrival, however, we need to take a moment and thank God for the journey of Lent that awaits us this month. For it is through the journey and the Cross that we find and experience the resurrection.
February 17th, Ash Wednesday, begins our Lenten journey of prayer, sacrifice, alms giving, and reflection. Lent is an essential part of our Christian life, just as winter is intimately tied to spring. We need the time of Lent, the practices of Lent, and the messages of Lent to prepare for Easter.
I pray that this holy season is a transforming one for you and our community. Let’s continue to pray for each other.
With peace,
Fr. Rick