Jesus went to pray, leaving his closest disciples nearby, asking them to stay awake.  Another version has Jesus asking them if they did not have the strength to stay awake.  Jesus calls to watch (pray) with him.  But at times, we do not have the strength (desire) to make time for prayer.

This Thursday is the beginning of the Triduum, the most solemn time of our liturgical year, marked by a ‘continuous’ liturgy from Thursday until the Easter Vigil on Saturday.  Holy Thursday is the night (7 PM) we commemorate the Last Supper and the Lord going to the garden to pray. Instead of the Mass ending as usual, the consecrated hosts are processed in silence to an alternate tabernacle, where they will reside for a period of silent adoration.  Will you not watch with me one hour?

I regret to say that our experiment with Adoration and Benediction on First Fridays has come to an end.  Dwindling numbers in attendance no longer are enough to sustain it.  Could you not watch with me one hour (or less)?

Our Good Friday service is at 1:30 PM, with readings, intercessions, Adoration of the Cross, and distribution of Holy Communion.

Holy Saturday morning (March 25^th) we will once again bless Easter baskets, according to the ancient Easter European tradition for blessing the food used to break the Lenten fast on Easter Sunday morning and throughout the day.  Eggs, meat, oil, butter, spring greens, sweet rolls, candy, wine, and candles are a few of the items that can be found in these baskets.  This is a great family tradition.  If it is not one of yours, maybe you want to make it one.  If you need more information, please feel free to contact me.  Blessing will be at 10 AM, followed by the Easter Egg Hunt.

The Easter Vigil begins at 8 PM, with the blessing of the new fire and of the new Paschal Candle.  This year we have the opportunity to welcome a new member of our Catholic family.  Sarah Hardaker will be baptized, confirmed, and receive her First Communion at the Vigil Mass.  Please remember her in all your prayers and welcome her when you have the chance.

Have a very blessed and joyous Easter.

Peace, Blessings, and Joy
Deacon Stan