Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Today we celebrate Laetare Sunday, literally meaning, “rejoice.” Exactly 21 days before Easter, we may see rose vestments and a touch of festive décor in the sanctuary to distinguish this Sunday from the other Sundays during Lent.
Historically, the name for this Sunday comes from Isaiah 66:10, “Rejoice, O Jerusalem!” This is the basis for the Introit, or opening hymn. This excerpt of scripture comes after the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile that resulted. Isaiah 66 describes a miraculous birth for Jerusalem, free of labor and pain, signifying a new beginning after that period of trial and tribulation. This call to “rejoice” with Jerusalem is a call for God’s people to share in the joy of her restoration.
As we reflect on the joy that comes with a renewed Jerusalem, we contemplate God’s power and sovereignty, love and care as we find ourselves renewed with hope as pilgrims and disciples. Turning away from the destruction of sin, a new dawn approaches and our own souls are refreshed. Rejoice!
This midpoint of Lent may also invite each of us to ask ourselves, “How am I doing? Am I embracing the fullness of this holy season? Am I engaged in the three-fold discipline of intensified prayer, fasting, and almsgiving?”
As we continue this season of renewed hope, I invite you and your family to participate in some of the special Lenten observances. Stations of the Cross are on Fridays after the 5:30pm Mass and Eucharistic Adoration is on Wednesdays after the 5:30pm Mass, both at Saint Patrick. Confessions are regularly scheduled on Mondays from 4:50pm 5:20pm at St. Patrick and after the Friday 12noon Mass at St. Malachi. Additional times for this sacrament will be available during Holy Week.
Also, please be sure to carefully review our parish bulletin and Lenten brochure so you can mark your calendars for the various celebrations during Holy Week, especially Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday/Easter Sunday.
To truly rejoice is to take advantage of all that God provides for us, including this beautiful season of grace. May we continue to rejoice together!
Prayerfully yours in Christ,
Fr. Gurnick
