Traditionally on this Second Sunday of Lent, we hear the story of the transfiguration of Jesus atop a high mountain. In Luke’s version this year, this miraculous event is tied to the Resurrection. The Transfiguration gives us a glimpse of the Resurrection and a taste of the glory which is to be found on the other side of the cross. It is a beautiful vision filled with light, white robes, Old Testament notables, and even a voice from heaven. Peter wanted to stay, but Jesus moves the apostles down the mountain to begin the work of evangelization. Our Lent is really a time of “transformation”—a journey of change and growth. Are we open to it?

This morning, several candidates in the R.C.I.A. will take part in the Penitential Rite. These are brothers and sisters already baptized who are completing their initiation in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist or for those making a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church. This weekend, our Stewardship Committee is helping us to reflect on our vocation to be men and women of compassion to those who are in need. There are many opportunities for us to minister to the poor and hungry, to the sick and to those who find life burdensome. Please step outside after the morning Masses to find out more about these vital Franciscan ministries calling out for more volunteers. Refreshments are served.

This Tuesday, March 19th, we celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph. A festive tri‐lingual Mass will be celebrated— including Italian! After the Mass, we will process to the hall where we will bless the beautiful St. Joseph’s table covered with homemade pastries for sale. Then, we will enjoy a delicious Linguine Pasta dinner prepared by chef Daniel from the Old Mission! A suggested donation of $10 is asked for the dinner. However, no one is to stay home if this is a burden. That is the object of the St. Joseph Table—all come to the table! All the proceeds from the feast day will be sent to Guaymas, Mexico and to the Sisters in Tijuana. Come celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph— the patron of the universal Church and of Italy!

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for our amazing production of “Faustina: Messenger of Divine Mercy!” to take place in Serra center on April 8th. See the bulletin for details.

In closing, I remind you of all the wonderful opportunities to grow spiritually for Lent. Taizé Prayer is on Wednesdays, Soup and Study on Thursdays, and Stations of the cross on Fridays of Lent. See today’s bulletin for more details.

Love,

Fr. Vince