One of the most difficult things for us to do is to admit our sins. It is much easier to admit that we have faults – but only the good kind of faults like being too well organized or working too hard. It is very difficult for us to admit to wrongdoing, and when we are forced to because we have been caught, we try to place blame elsewhere. How often in our society we hear of a criminal or a politician being caught committing a crime, and then the individual blames someone else, or complains that the “system is flawed” and not he.

     Deep inside, we know that we are sinners and we keep our sins hidden from everyone and try to hide them even from ourselves. We also know, but don’t want to acknowledge, that God knows all our sins. He knows us completely, even better than we know ourselves. And in spite of our faults and sinfulness, God still loves us with perfect love that only God can have.

     There are many instances in the Gospels that Jesus explains to us the Father’s love for us and Jesus call us to repentance. Lent is the time for us to answer that call. God, our loving Father is waiting for us.

     The way to forgiveness is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. During these last two weeks of Lent, look deep inside your soul, acknowledge your sinfulness and seek forgiveness. Our cluster parishes are offering the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Confessions are also heard here every Saturday and 4:30pm, and during Holy Week confessions will be heard Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday after the 7:30am Mass. Take to heart the words on the cover of the bulletin: “The forty days of Lent - Return to the Lord your God.”

 

                      God Bless! Fr. Joe Bacevice

 

ALTAR SOCIETY PLANT SALE

Spring is in the air! Time to start planning your garden and ordering your flowers and vegetables through the Altar Society’s annual plant sale. Order blanks will be available beginning next weekend. We look forward to your support!

2015 FIRST STEP PROGRAMS
(Continuing education regarding marriage and divorce
in the Catholic Church)

 

 Attempting to pick up the pieces of one’s life after the tragedy of divorce is complex and demanding. One of the significant issues that a person faces is their place in the Church. Does the Church still care about me even though I am divorced? Am I allowed to go to Mass? Can I receive communion? How can the Church help me heal? If I want to marry again, what do I have to do?

     The Tribunal of the Diocese of Cleveland is continuing to offer its very successful First Step Program in order to help individuals deal with these questions. The Church’s teachings on marriage, divorce, and remarriage are often misunderstood. This program is offered to help everyone, especially those who have experienced divorce, learn more about Catholic teaching in these areas. Representatives from the Ministry to the Divorced and the Office of the Department for Marriage and Family Ministry will also be present to explain their ministry to those who are divorced. For more information about this program, contact either Fr. Bacevice or Deacon Pecek.