Dear Parishioners,

This weekend’s Gospel we hear about how salvation came to the woman at the well. She was living in sin and she was likely considered an outcast since she was coming to the well in the middle of the day. As we heard, Jesus knew about her situation in life. Yet, he did not waiver in his approach to her, and she appeared to be open to his presence. These two points are helpful to us who are also sinners. 

In Lent, we are being called to look at where we need to be reconciled to God and each other. Yet, fear often becomes one our biggest obstacles. We harden our hearts and sometimes choose to stay away from God and his bride, the Church. We sometimes think, “There’s no way God could forgive me of my sin. It is too great.” Our sin can also cause more sin, and we begin to grumble like the Israelites. Do not be afraid! 

Listen carefully to God speaking to you. Spend time in prayer listening to his loving voice. Remember, what God has to say is much more valuable than what we have to say. Listen to his voice, and harden not your heart. He wants to forgive you. He does not want to berate you or mock you. Then receive him in the Eucharist and let him lead you. 

We will have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Christ’s forgiveness in our annual Lenten Reconciliation Service next week on Tues., March 24th at 7 PM. We will have many priests who will kindly listen to your confession and offer you the gift of Christ’s absolution. Come and encounter the healing salvation of Christ in the forgiveness of your sins. 

Blessings,

Fr. William Holtzinger
Pastor