Isaiah 66:10-11: Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast.

Catholic Relief Services aids the poor and vulnerable worldwide through faith-driven programs, relying on donations to continue its mission of compassion and solidarity.

To make our Easter services come alive with the color and beauty of these flowers, extra donations are needed and greatly appreciated.

Romans 5:8: But God shows His love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. 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.

We, too, can bear our hardship for the Gospel because through the grace of the Transfiguration we have been given ‘the strength that comes from God.”

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.