Lent is our time of preparation.
We begin our Lenten journey on Ash Wednesday. During these 40 days, we ponder what it means to “give up, take up and lift up.” Using the spiritual practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, we deepen our relationship with Christ and discern where God is working in our lives.
Prayer
We pray for others in the global church. We reflect on what type of person God calls us to be, and we ask for his guidance in living up to our potential. There are many ways to pray, and many individuals and communities that need our prayers.
Fasting
We fast, or give things up, as a reminder to remove things in our lives that get in the way of our relationship with God. When we feel hungry or choose not to eat the things we like, we are reminded that everything we have is a gift from God. Our fasting also reminds us of those who do not have enough food, who experience hunger without a choice. God calls each of us to care for those who are in need. Fasting, as a pillar of Lent and vital component of the Christian life, is something that deserves reflection.
Giving
We give alms with a spirit of generosity to our brothers and sisters in need, honoring Jesus’ call to serve our neighbors. This Lent, through our sacrifices, we can empower and transform the lives of our brothers and sisters in need.
Ash Wednesday
St. Julia Church
Masses at 7:00AM & 7:30 PM
Prayer Service at 12:10PM
St. Joseph Church
Mass at 9:00 AM
Prayer Service at 4:00PM
The Light Is On For You, Reconciliation
“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:7
In addition to the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) on Saturdays in the Parish Center (Weston), both of our churches will offer an opportunity for Reconciliation each Wednesday during Lent from 6:30PM – 8:30PM.
Lenten Prayer Circle
May we join together as a prayerful and caring community with genuine concerns for each other and those in need. Sign-up to pray for others intentions and/or request others pray for your intentions. More Information.
Stations of the Cross
Fridays, March 10, 17, 24 at 6:30pm – Saint Julia Church
An opportunity to follow Jesus on his way to the Cross. A beautiful preparation for Holy Week and Easter. More Information.
Soup & Stations
Friday, March 31st at 6:30pm – Saint Julia Church & Hall
An opportunity to participate in this meaningful prayer of the church and then share a supper of soup, bread and drinks together! More Information.
Holy Week
Palm Sunday, April 9th – Easter Sunday, April 16th, 2017
During Holy Week, the Catholic Church recalls the Passion of Christ by reading the accounts of His Death in the Gospels More Information.
CRS Rice Bowls
CRS Rice Bowl is Catholic Relief Services’ Lenten faith-in-action program for parishes, schools and families. The program invites Catholics to live in solidarity with our poorest and most vulnerable brothers and sisters through the three Lenten pillars of praying, fasting, and almsgiving. More Information.
Lenten Regulations
Abstinence — Catholics over 14 years of age are bound to the obligation of abstinence. Abstinence is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and on all Fridays of Lent. On days of abstinence, meat may not be eaten at all.
Fast — Catholics over 18 and up to the beginning of their 60th year are bound to the obligation of fasting. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are the days of fasting. On these days, only one full meal is allowed. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and fruit juices are allowed.
