At this mid-point of Lent we pause to rejoice. This Sunday, which parallels a similar Sunday in Advent, is known as Laetare i.e. Rejoice Sunday. It is a tradition to replace the stark violet vestments on this day with rose colored ones. The name comes from the traditional entrance chant, or Introit, which begins in Latin with the words “Rejoice Jerusalem” from Isaiah 66:10-11.

John 4:13-14: Whoever drinks this water will get thirsty again; but anyone who drinks the water that I shall give will never be thirsty again: the water that I shall give will turn into a spring inside him, welling up to eternal life......

Get a free copy of “Why Stay away? Encountering Heaven on Earth” from the Discovery Room why supplies last.   In this beautiful little booklet, which is companion to our parish Lenten small group study on the Mass, you will find answers to common questions as well as devotional prayers is to say after Mass.

During these first days of Lent we have had a chance to put into effect our spiritual battle plan. The gospels since Ash Wednesday have reminded us of the need to pray, to do penance, and to love our neighbor, which reveal to us the loving face of our heavenly Father....

We encourage you to begin Lent by attending Mass on Ash Wednesday. Ashes will be distributed at the 8:00a.m.; 12 noon; 5:00p.m. Latin High Mass; and 7:00p.m. Masses.

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence for everyone 14 years old and older. The norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal. Drinking liquids during the day is permitted. When health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige. In doubt concerning fast or abstinence, a priest assigned to pastoral ministry, or confessor should be consulted. In the spirit of penance, the faithful should not lightly excuse themselves from this obligation.

Each Tuesday of Lent from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., March 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9 & 16; and on Saturdays from 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Wednesdays, March 13, 20, 27, April 3 and 10 at 5:30p.m. in. St. Michael's Hall. All are welcome! Suppers followed by Mass sessions

On April 4th at 7:00 p.m. at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Cross, 900 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002