March 2024
Brother Knights, Ladies Auxiliary and IHM Congregation:
I hope your Lenten journey is going well, and you’re keeping all Lenten promises. But maybe you’ve fallen short of your best intentions. If that happens, there’s always a chance to start anew. I’m reminded of the aphorism, attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, that “God writes straight with crooked lines.” Keep your eye on
the final destination and be open to where God is guiding you at this point on your Lenten/Life journey.
Naturally Lent brings unique opportunities – like IHM’s Stations of the Cross on Fridays at 7pm (preceded by our Fish Fry from 4:30-6:30). For me, Lent is about changing your perspective. While that might mean doing radically different things, it can also be accomplished by things available year-round. Perhaps give daily Mass a try (set a realistic goal — a few times during Lent or perhaps once a week.) Maybe stop & spend time with our Lord in IHM’s Adoration Chapel. Go to confession. Visit nearby Mother Cabrini Shrine. Attend a Council meeting — the next one is March 12th (530pm gathering, 6 meal, 640 Rosary, 7 meeting).
I’ll suggest something real simple — sit in a way different place at Sunday Mass. I’m a creature of habit – usually sitting in the same place (even the same pew). The last few weeks I’ve moved around — from one side of the center aisle to the other, near the center aisle or the outside, close and far away. I’ve been amazed at how different the church looks — seeing things I knew existed but hadn’t seen in a while. I’ve met new people and seen familiar faces from a different angle. I’ve found myself more engaged in the Mass with the changing viewpoint.
We will all have a different perspective when (weather permitting) Palm Sunday starts with a
gathering on the lawn. The procession into church may send you to a different seating position. Be
open to where God is guiding you.
We’ll culminate Lent with Holy Thursday and the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Come by on Good Friday for the Passion Play by the Youth Group and The Lord’s Passion. Holy Saturday includes the Divine Mercy Choir concert. Finally, the Glory of Easter. Whether you come on the Vigil or Sunday, you’re certainly going to find yourself among many unfamiliar faces. Just like at Christmas, I ask you to be kind and welcoming to those folks. Your greeting and welcoming smile may be all someone needs to bring them back to more regular attendance.
I pray that you continue to have a fruitful Lent, are open to what God intends for you during this time and become prepared to celebrate a Blessed Easter.
Vivat Jesus
Douglas Blondin
Grand Knight Council 7502
Northglenn, CO
