A Letter From Our Pastor: Preparing for Lent with the Heart of a Steward

Dear Parishioners,

As we approach the season of Lent, a time of reflection, penance, and spiritual growth, I would like to remind you of the importance of preparing for Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season by examining our stewardship commitments of time, talent, and treasure. This period is not just about giving up certain luxuries, but also about deepening our faith, renewing our commitment to God, and serving others with a generous heart.

Time: Time is a precious gift from God, and how we use it reflects our priorities and values. During Lent, it is essential to allocate more time to prayer, reflection, and service. Consider setting aside moments for daily prayer and Scripture reading. Attend Mass regularly and engage in devotional practices that help you draw closer to God. Additionally, volunteer your time to help those in need within our community. Acts of charity and service are a meaningful way to spend your time during this season.

Talent: Each one of us possesses unique talents and abilities bestowed upon us by God. Lent is a perfect time to reflect on how we can use our talents to further God’s kingdom. Consider sharing your talents with the parish and the broader community. Whether it’s through participating in ministries, leading prayer groups, or offering your skills to those in need, your talents can be a source of blessing to others and an expression of your commitment to God.

Treasure: The stewardship of our material resources is a vital aspect of our faith. During Lent, take a closer look at your financial commitments and how you can align them with your faith. Consider increasing your financial support to the parish and charitable organizations that serve those in need. Sacrificing a portion of your financial resources during Lent can be an act of solidarity with the less fortunate and a way to live out the spirit of almsgiving.

As we prepare for Ash Wednesday and the 40 days of Lent, I encourage you to engage in a personal examination of your stewardship commitments in these three areas: time, talent, and treasure. This examination can be a profound way to renew your commitment to God and your parish community.

Additionally, I invite you to attend our Ash Wednesday service and to receive the ashes as a visible sign of your willingness to repent, seek forgiveness, and embrace a more profound connection with Christ during this holy season. Use this time to reflect on the significance of Lent and how your stewardship can be a living expression of your faith and love for God.

May this Lenten season be a time of spiritual growth and transformation, as we examine and strengthen our stewardship commitments in the spirit of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. May we draw closer to God and one another, as we journey towards the joy of Easter.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Fr. Steven Arisman, Pastor