Thank you to the 78 families (as of writing this) who have given so far to the annual Diocesan Charity and Development Appeal (CDA).

As I announced a couple weeks ago, the parish goal hasn't changed for many years. This year, however, we've been given the goal of $151,562 (based on 3yr. avg revenue), which is almost $50k more than 187 families gave last year. As you can see, in order to reach our goal, it will take every family to do their part! Every gift matters, no matter how big or small, and each family is called to give what they can- in proportion to how God has blessed them. I personally have not given yet, but I plan to give this week. How about you?

If you have not done your part yet, can I ask- why not? I can imagine some of you have difficult situations, so are hesitant to give. However, please ask yourself, if your situation is more important or more critical than another's? Please keep in mind that a portion of the money raised in the CDA goes to help over 100 organizations, many of whom help the poor- those who don’t have the money for even their basic needs. Your one-time gift could help another get by for months to come. In addition, giving what you can for the good of others instead of keeping it all for your own needs, shows God that you trust Him to help take care of your needs and desires.

During Lent, we are called to Pray more, Fast more, and Give Alms more. Giving to others in the CDA is giving Alms.

Have you discerned what you are going to do or give up in Lent this year? Consider this Scripture verse from the Book of Sirach, which was recently a reading for Daily Mass. (In fact, the whole book of Sirach, which we are going through in the first reading of daily Mass, offers great short statements to reflect on. Maybe that is something you are called to do each day?)

“Rely not on your wealth; say not: “I have the power”. Rely not on your strength in following the desires of your heart. Say not: "I have sinned, yet what has befallen me?" for the Most High bides his time. Of forgiveness be not overconfident, adding sin upon sin. Say not: "Great is his mercy; my many sins he will forgive.” For mercy and anger alike are with him; upon the wicked alights his wrath. Delay not your conversion to the LORD, put it not off from day to day." Sirach 5: 1-8)

Let this Lent be about working toward a conversion. What area in your life is God calling you to grow closer to Him in? Or away from a certain Sin? Let what you do, or what you give up, work toward that area of conversion. And after Lent, don’t plan to pick up the vice again, but continue to “Delay not your conversion to the Lord”!

In Christ,

Fr. Chad

BACK TO LIST