Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Lent begins with Ash Wednesday this week (2/18). While Ash Wednesday is not a day we are obligated to attend Mass (though that is a good way to begin the season), it is a day we are obliged to fasting and abstinence. Every Catholic who has reached the age of 14 or beyond is to observe the norms regarding the abstaining from meat on Ash Wednesday and every Friday of the year (though the Church has allowed the faithful the option of substituting another penitential act on the Fridays outside of Lent). The fasting obligation applies to those Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 (inclusively). Even this fast is not overburdensome as you may still eat one full meal and up to two other times of the day that together do not add up to another full meal.

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The fasting and abstinence, along with the pious practice of giving up something during the Lenten season can be good opportunities for us to “detox” our bodies and minds. By changing your habits and refraining from certain foods – cutting certain sugars from your diet or removing all processed foods – you can begin to eat healthier, reduce your sluggishness and experience a renewal and revitalization in your body. Those bodily experiences are mirrored in the mind, and usually the better we feel physically, the more mental energy we have as well. Including other similar mental or habitual detoxing such as reducing screen time or decluttering your house or garage can lead to a greater sense of well-being. And as the body and mind are connected with our soul and spirit, these Lenten practices can help move us to a greater encounter with God. By them, we can more fully recognize our place in the world, appreciate the gifts of creation, and after participating in the sacrifices of Christ, rejoice in His Resurrection.

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May all of you have a Blessed Lent,

Fr. Timothy

 

All Things New Transition Team

I am looking for a few more members who would be interested in participating in our ACC All Things New Transition Team. As I mentioned in previous bulletin articles, this team would help in all those decisions involved in implementing the All Things New Plan for our parishes. The primary focus would be on addressing pastoral issues – the emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges that we will face as we make changes in our parishes. The exact commitment is not certain at this time. We will likely meet every other month to start, but I imagine as things progress, we may meet once a month. Though the plan indicates a timeline of several years, members of the transition team would not be required to remain on it the entire time. There will be opportunities for individuals to step down from the team and for others to join it. - Fr. Timothy