Wow! Here we are, the third week of lent. How’s it going for you? Have you been able to keep up with your asceticism? You might have fallen once or twice already. All I ask is, don’t give up. Keep striving. Get back on the horse of faith, and ride onward to a new, spiritual you!

Next weekend we celebrate two wonderful events. Less significant, in comparison, is St. Patrick’s Day. You already know that you have been dispensed from your fast and abstinence on Friday, March 17. Part of the dispensation is a requirement to do something of penance in its place. Give more, pray more, read the Bible more – do something. And above all, enjoy your corn beef and cabbage!

The other event, which is more special for us as a parish, takes place on Sunday, which is the feast day of Saint Joseph, our namesake and protector. I want to invite you to our annual St Joseph Table after the 10:30 Sunday mass. What a great way to gather for fellowship and give thanks to Saint Joseph, as he continues to protect and safeguard our parish and families. This year marks the 124th anniversary of our parish’s patronage under St. Joseph. Next fall, in 2024, will constitute our 125th anniversary! More to come about that down the road.

Lent is almost halfway over. Take heart. Have a great week, and God bless you and yours!