HERE - St. Brendan the Navigator

First Sunday of Lent
February 14, 2016
The Navigator
El Navegante
St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church
Cumming, GA
Go… Baptize… Teach…
Vayan… Bauticen… Enseñen…
Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for February
Universal: That we may take good care of creation – a gift
freely given – cultivating and protecting it for future
generations.
Evangelization: That opportunities may increase for
dialogue and encounter between the Christian faith and the
peoples of Asia.
Save the Date: Lenten Events
Lenten Penance Service
Feb. 25th at 7:00pm.
24-Hour Adoration and
Confession Mar. 1-2nd.
Learn more on page 3.
Mass Etiquette: The Three
Pillars of Lent
Lent is a time of conversion
where we acknowledge the
ways that we have turned away
from God and focus on coming
back to Him. The three pillars of
Lent help us in this journey.
Prayer
Prayer is our conversation with
God. It helps us grow in our
relationship with Him and reflect
on our weakness and sins.
Fasting and almsgiving find
meaning in our prayer.
Fasting
When we talk about ‘giving up
something for Lent’ we are
talking about fasting. It means
that we deprive ourselves of a
small pleasure or we give up a
bad habit as a way to turn back
toward God. The pinch we feel
is a reminder of our desire for
God.
Almsgiving or Charity
Almsgiving means donating
money or goods to the poor and
performing other acts of charity.
It is a response to our prayer
and fasting. Jesus teaches us
that giving alms means that we
are making other’s needs our
own. It is a way to love the
needy around us.
Utensil Wrapping for Local Soup Kitchen
Join us in wrapping utensils for The Place on Friday, Feb. 19th,
5:30-7:00pm. The utensils we wrap will be used in the weekly
soup kitchen. We will meet in the St. Brendan’s classrooms,
adjacent to the Social Hall. What to bring: dinner napkins,
and plastic eating utensils (forks, knives, and spoons). Contact Carmen
Ross with any questions at carmross@comcast.net or 770-349-9216.
Creating “Mercy” kits
Join us as we create various “mercy” kits on Friday, Feb.
27th, 5:30-7:00pm. These kits will be distributed to the less
fortunate and used to invite our friends to St. Brendan’s for
Lenten activities, Easter celebrations, and other events
throughout the year. We will meet in the St. Brendan’s
classrooms, adjacent to the Social Hall. What to bring: Granola bars,
individual snacks, religious items, and toiletry items. Contact Dan
Henkel with any questions at dan@thehenkels.com or 404-606-8326.
Feet on the Street
We need “feet on the street” to invite and welcome all to St.
Brendan’s for our Lenten mission and other events. This is a
great way to get St. Brendan’s name out in the community
sharing our mission of Go…Baptize…Teach and the love of
Christ. Join us on Friday, Feb. 26th, 11:30am-2:30pm at the corner of
Chico’s at The Collection (410 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041)
What to Bring: Smiling faces and an open heart. Contact Kelle Russo
with any questions at krusso@stbrendansatl.com or 770-722-9181
Sign up to volunteer for any of the St. Brendan’s Lenten service
opportunities at www.stbrendansatl.com/volunteer-opportunities/
Pastoral Staff
Rev. Fr. Matthew VanSmoorenburg, L.C., Pastor...
Rev. Fr. Octavio Ventura, L.C., Parochial Vicar ......
Rev. Fr. Patrick Langan, L.C., Parochial Vicar …….
Rev. Fr. Jason Brooks, L.C, Parochial Vicar……......
Rev. Mr. Roger Fraser, Deacon ..............................
Rev. Mr. Luis Carlos Lorza, Deacon ……………….
Rev. Mr. Ed Rubio, Deacon ....................................
frmatthew@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 42
froctavio@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 12
plangan@stbrendansatl.com
jbrooks@stbrendansatl.com
rfraser@stbrendansatl.com
llorza@stbrendansatl.com,
ext. 43
erubio@stbrendansatl.com
How Do I?
Register at the parish?
Visit www.stbrendansatl.com/online-registration or pick up a “Welcome” packet in the Narthex.
Receive personalized offertory envelopes?
Elba Banderas at ebanderas@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 10.
Make arrangements for a wedding?
Contact Fr. Octavio, ext. 12 at least six months before an anticipated wedding date.
Contact someone about my interest to become Catholic?
Don Conklin, dconklin@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 26.
Contact a Priest in a Sacramental Emergency?
Phone 678-224-8448, 24 hours a day.
Arrange for Communion to the sick or homebound?
Call the parish office at 770-205-7969.
Arrange to have my child baptized?
Sandy Spera, ext 27 (English), Deacon Luis Carlos Lorza, ext. 43 (Spanish)
Request Baptismal, Confirmation or Marriage certificate?
Luisa Rubio, lrubio@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 15.
Place an announcement in the bulletin?
Online form available at www.stbrendansatl.com/calendar.
Receive information about an annulment?
Deacon Roger Fraser, rfraser@stbrendansatl.com.
Reconnect with the Catholic Church?
Don Conklin, dconklin@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 26.
Register my child/children for Religious Education?
Stacy Applegate, sapplegate@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 13 (English), or Monica Plew,
mplew@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 40 (Spanish)
Make arrangements for a Funeral or Burial?
Deacon Luis Carlos Lorza, llorza@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 43.
Schedule an appointment with a priest?
Mary Ann Mallon, mmallon@stbrendansatl.com or ext. 11.
Request a Mass intention?
Call the parish office at 770-205-7969.
Reserve a meeting space at St. Brendan?
Online form available at www.stbrendansatl.com/calendar.
Volunteer in the parish?
Opportunities are updated weekly and listed online at
www.stbrendansatl.com/volunteer-opportunities/
Seek counseling services for myself or my family?
Holy Family Counseling Center, 678-993-8494 or Catholic Charities of Atlanta, 404-920-7725.
Seek information about Alcoholics Anonymous for myself or my family?
Bob 404-308-6556; Kathie 404-219-4055
Seek bereavement support?
Debbie Rigby, drigby@laniertech.edu, 678-617-7268.
Receive assistance from the St. Joseph’s Food Pantry?
Open Wed. 4:30 – 6:00 pm in the Barn behind the Church or contact Barbara Gordon at
barbaradgordon@aol.com, 404-431-9924.
Seek emergency financial assistance?
Good Samaritan Hotline: 770-205-2324; leave a message and expect a call back within 24 hours.
Sign up for electronic giving?
Look for the “online giving” link on our homepage at www.stbrendansatl.com or Laura Myers,
lmyers@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 21.
Receive a tax receipt for donations?
Laura Myers, lmyers@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 21.
Find out about St. Brendan’s Preschool?
Julie Lahey, jlahey@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 19.
Find out about parish life?
Kelle Russo, krusso@stbrendansatl.com, ext. 41.
MASS SCHEDULE
HORARIO DE MISAS
Saturday Vigil:
5:00 pm & 7:00 pm (en Español)
Sunday:
7:30 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am,
1:00 pm (en Español), 5:00 pm
Daily Mass
Monday – Saturday: 8:30 am
Tuesday, Thurs. & Fri.: 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 pm (en Español)
Rosary – after weekday am Mass
The Chaplet of Divine Mercy
en Español
Sundays at 12:30 pm
Eucharistic Adoration
in St. Sebastian Chapel
Tuesday - 6:30 pm – Wednesday
6:45 pm
Reconciliation
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. until last person
served and 3:30 - 4:45 pm
Tuesday: 4:30 - 5:45 pm
Wednesday: 5:30 - 6:45 pm English
and en Español
Please note: Mass times may vary on
Holy Days. Check the Mass Intentions in this bulletin or the website
calendar.
Parish Office Hours:
Oficina Parroquial:
Mon – Thurs
9:00 am – 4:00 pm,
Fri 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Maintenance Personnel
Contact Info:
Mac McKinney – 678-467-6490
Melvin Rogers – 404-313-2330
Alex Ayala – 770-500-9341
St. Brendan the Navigator
Catholic Church
4633 Shiloh Road
Cumming, GA 30040
Phone: 770-205-7969
Fax: 770-205-5040
WWW.STBRENDANSATL.COM
ARCHDIOCESE OF ATLANTA
24 HOUR ABUSE REPORTING LINE
1-888-437-0764
Archbishop’s Annual Appeal: Love
Never Fails
Thanks to all the families who made
pledges and payments to the
Archbishop’ Annual Appeal that was
kicked off in late January.
For those families who have not yet
pledged, envelopes are available in the
Narthex. The Archbishop encourages
everyone to participate in this annual
request. These funds support the many
ministries that are served out of the
Chancery. Additionally, parishes like St.
Brendan’s benefit from funds that
support training and development of
staff, clergy and volunteers.
Once St. Brendan’s has met the goal
established by the Archdiocese for this
year, all excess funds will be returned to
the parish. Last year, we received over
$65,000 back, which went directly to
our Capital Campaign, helping us
achieve the first million dollars toward
our expansion.
Lent 2016
Mercy, God’s gift to all
Featured Events
33 Days to Morning Glory Marian Consecration
Marian consecration is the act of entrusting your spiritual life
to Jesus through Mary. It is the surest, easiest, shortest and
most perfect means to becoming a saint. Join us on this
simple 33-day do-it-yourself retreat that takes us through the
teachings of different saints preparation for Marian
Consecration. Fr. Jason will explain this journey at all the
Masses on the weekend of Feb. 20-21st. The final Marian
Consecration will be held on Good Friday, March 25th at 9:00am or
9:00pm. If you choose to participate, guide books will be available for
purchase in the Narthex for $4.00 the weekend of Feb. 20-21st or on
our Lighthouse media rack anytime.
3rd-6th Grade Girls Lenten Retreat
Join us for a fun day full of activities, games, and spirituality as we
prepare our hearts for Jesus' death and resurrection! This Lenten
Retreat will be on Feb. 20th from 8:30am-3:30pm, starting with
morning Mass and continuing in the St. Brendan's Learning Center.
The cost is $30. Contact Kelly Henkel at kelly@thehenkels.com for
more details. To register, visit http://tinyurl.com/3-6LentRetreat
Lenten Penance Service
On Feb. 25th at 7:00pm, we will hold our annual Lenten Penance
service. The priests of St. Brendan’s will be joined by visiting priests
and offer the sacrament of confession.
Parish Mission: Science Tests Faith
Don’t miss this presentation, Signs from God: Miracles
and their Meaning. Speaker Tim Francis will provide
scientific explanations behind a statue of Christ that
weeps and bleeds, a communion host that changed
into a living, beating heart, and a woman who suffers
Garden Ministry
the stigmata (wounds of Christ). For believers and non-believers
Want to have fun, make
alike, this presentation will impact your life and your faith. Join us on
friends and help feed those Feb. 28th or 29th at 6:30pm in the Church. Learn more at
in need at the same time? If www.ScienceTestsFaith.com/st-brendan/. RSVP for Childcare at
"Yes", the Garden Ministry www.jotformpro.com/stbrendan/Childcare
is for you! This Ministry has been
"Producing" for six years, providing the
St. Joseph Food Pantry with fresh fruits
and veggies for its patrons. We are
looking for Chair/Co-Chair persons for
the following committees:
communications, events, planting and
Work Days, seed starting, maintenance,
ministry carnival, and team coaches. No
experience is needed, just a love of the
earth and of your fellow neighbors in
need. Contact Ann Marie Dusek
jamdusek@comcast.net
LIFT
24-Hour Adoration and Confession
At the request of Pope Francis to host 24 hours before the Lord this
Lent, St. Brendan’s will have 24 hours of Adoration and Confession
from 6:45pm on Mar. 1st to 5:45pm on Mar. 2nd. Please join us for
this time to encounter God’s mercy.
Weekly Events:
Children’s Stations of the Cross
5:00pm on Fridays during Lent in the Church. Contact Stacy
Applegate at sapplegate@stbrendansatl.com.
Bilingual Stations of the Cross
7:00pm on Fridays during Lent in the Church.
Friday Fish Fries at 5:00-8:00pm in the Social Hall. Tickets for
Adults are $9, Children 8-12 are $5, and 7 & under are free. Tickets
For women who desire to Live are available at the information desk in the Narthex or by contacting
Bill Hickman mfglink@comcast.net. Part of the proceeds support the
In Faith Together… Come to
Capital Campaign.
LIFT! March 1| 6:30pm-
8:30pm | Social Hall
Enjoy a relaxing evening of
growing in friendship with others, as
you share and grow in faith. This
includes dinner, a presentation and a
lively discussion! Remember, we do the
cooking. $8 for dinner, dessert and
beverages. For more info contact: Jan
Rooney at jan@janrooney.com.
Valentine’s Date Night—Tonight
Join us tonight, Feb. 14, 5:00-8:00pm for the Valentine’s Date
Night. Beginning with 5:00pm Mass and renewal of wedding
vows, the event includes dinner and a talk by Fr. James Swanson,
LC. Contact Judy Van Velsor at jvanvelsor@stbrendansatl.com to
reserve your spot. Please RSVP for Childcare with the following
link: http://www.jotformpro.com/stbrendan/Childcare
Readings for the Week of February 14, 2016
Sunday:
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday:
ATTENTION ALL TEENS!!!
Thursday:
JOIN US FOR EPIC !
Friday:
EPIC is literally a “warehouse” of
Saturday:
excitement and inspiration. Join the cast Next Sunday:
taking the stage for an evening of
theatre, music, and entertainment. A
perfect opportunity to make new
friends, have some fun, and get to know
yourself better in a safe and friendly
place. No books – No tests – No
homework! Next session: Feb. 21, 6:308:30pm at the Warehouse on Post Road.
BRING a FRIEND. Cover charge $5. The
Coffee Shop will open at 6:00pm for the
purchase of beverages.
St. Brendan's Seniors
February Luncheon
St. Brendan's Seniors'
Luncheon will be on
Thursday, Feb. 18th at Golden Corral
Restaurant, 2025 Market Place Blvd.,
Cumming in a private room. New
members are always welcome. Please
RSVP to Pat Jodry at 770-889-1851 or
tishajodry@comcast.net by Monday,
Feb. 15th.
Formed.org Resources
Cold winter weather is here and if
you’re looking for something to do on a
relaxing Sunday afternoon when you
and the family are bundled up in the
den, look no further! Grab yourself a
hot drink, some snacks and go online
for some good Catholic reading and/or
videos.
St. Brendan’s is happy to provide you
with a full subscription at no
charge, to: "Formed—The Catholic
Faith. On Demand”.
Simply log-in to www.formed.org and
enter the St. Brendan's code
3GVEV2. Thanks to a generous
family, you and your whole family will
have "free" access this library of Faith
Formation resources for all ages!
Includes movies, programs, audio
tracks, books and more. Spanish titles
are also available These resources are
amazing!
Please share this gift with your whole
family. Contact Don Conklin at
dconklin@tbrendansatl.com with any
questions.
Dt 26:4-10/Rom 10:8-13/Lk 4:1-13
Lv 19:1-2, 11-18/Mt 25:31-46
Is 55:10-11/Mt 6:7-15
Jon 3:1-10/Lk 11:29-32
Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25/Mt 7:7-12
Ez 18:21-28/Mt 5:20-26
Dt 26:16-19/Mt 5:43-48
Gn 15:5-12, 17-18/Phil 3:17-4:1 or 3:20-4:1/Lk 9:28b-36
What is the Year of Mercy?
The Year of Mercy is a special period called a Holy Year or
Jubilee Year. Traditionally there is a jubilee year every 25 or
50 years. It is a year dedicated to forgiveness and healing in a
special way and to help people grow spiritually and strengthen
their faith. The Year of Mercy is an Extraordinary Jubilee Year
where Pope Francis is inviting us to live out in our daily lives
the mercy which the Father constantly offers us. He invites us
to be witnesses to mercy by reflecting on mercy, receiving
mercy, and being merciful towards others.
Living the Works of Mercy
The Works of Mercy are practical ways of living out mercy by
showing kindness and compassion to others both spiritually
and physically. Pope Francis has invited us to reflect on the
works of mercy that we may come to understand our hearts
and to be more merciful in our prayers, thoughts, and actions.
Corporal Works of Mercy Spiritual Works of Mercy
Feed the Hungry
Instruct the ignorant
Give drink to the thirsty
Counsel the doubtful
Clothe the naked
Admonish sinners
Welcome the stranger
Bear wrongs patiently
Heal the sick
Forgive offenses willingly
Visit the imprisoned
Comfort the afflicted
Bury the dead
Pray for the living and the
dead
More than a to-do list, the Works of Mercy are ways for us to
let God and His mercy fill our daily lives. They remind us that
we are surrounded with opportunities to be witnesses of
mercy, loving others as the Father loves us.
Capital Campaign Activities
Mass intentions/Intenciones para las Misas
FAQ’s were handed out at all Masses recently,
providing an overview of the campaign, providing
guidance for pledge making and offering many
opportunities to get involved in the efforts to support
the campaign that will run for the next two years. If
you didn’t get yours, more are available at the
parish office and in the Narthex. This is a very
helpful tool to educate and answer your many
questions.
Monday
15-Feb
8:30 AM Mark Cederquist (D)
Tuesday
16-Feb
8:30 AM Terry Morris (D)
6:00 PM Timoteo Ferrer (D)
Wednesday
17-Feb
8:30 AM Daniel Marinelli (D)
7:00 PM Rev. James F. McGoldrick (D)
Thursday
18-Feb
8:30 AM Ann Von Bargen (D)
6:00 PM Madelyn Trombino (D)
Friday
19-Feb
8:30 AM Cindy Cassandra (L)
6:00 PM Baby Martin (D)
Saturday
20-Feb
8:30 AM William and Beatrice McCarthy(L)
5:00 PM Leonard Gruccya (D)
7:00 PM Rev. Linus De Santis (D)
Sunday
21-Feb
Last weekend, families received a packet
containing more detailed information on our Capital
Campaign. Father Matthew walked us through the
contents of the packet during Masses throughout
the weekend. Make sure your family has one of
these, as there will be an opportunity to return a
yellow pledge card at all Masses the beginning this
weekend.
It is our goal to raise $4.0 million to support the
building of Phase One of
the Master Plan, while not
going into debt to do so.
Please pray for the success
of our campaign, so we can
continue to follow our
parish mission to “Go,
Baptize and Teach”.
Volunteer Activities Abound
Many volunteer opportunities are available to
support upcoming activities to raise money
(FUNdraising), provide communications, host
pledge events, and more. Please reach out for Vin
O’Reilly who is responsible for coordinating our
volunteer force.
7:30 AM
9:00 AM
11:00 AM
1:00 PM
5:00 PM
Please Remember in Your Prayers
Recordemos en Nuestras Oraciones
The Sick (Enfermos)
David Hall
June Houck
Recently Deceased (Fallecidos)
Steve Pettit
Patricia Withee
Maria Helena Covarrubias, “La Abuela”
Parish Stewardship of Treasure
January 2016
3-Jan-16
$53,105.00
10-Jan-16
$31,076.25
17-Jan-16
$27,916.00
24-Jan-16
$34,486.00
31-Jan-16
$28,103.00
Electronic Giving for the Month:
$16,470.00
Total:
$191,156.00
Offertory Monthly Budget:
$175,000.00
Overage/Shortage for the period:
$16,156.00
Offertory Actual YTD:
$1,136,253.00
Offertory Budget YDT:
$1,085,000.00
Overage/Shortage YDT:
$51,253.00
He can be reached at vinoreilly@comcast.net or
contact the Parish Office to volunteer.
Contribution Statements for 2015:
Contribution Statements for tax year 2015 have
been mailed out to the address currently on file at
the parish. Please note that contributions to the
Archbishop’s Annual Appeal are not included on
this statement as they are sent separately by the
Archdiocese. In addition, statements for any onetime donations of $250-plus have also been
mailed out as required by the IRS. If you do not
receive your mailed statement, please email (or
call) after to request a duplicate. Laura Myers,
Bookkeeper, ext. 21, lmyers@stbrendansatl.com.
People of our Parish (L)
Mary Smith Jones (D)
Margarita T. Moreno (L)
Leslie Rose (D)
Neftali Caldozo (D)
Last Week’s Second Collection:
Music Ministry
$4,166.00
Current Month Contributions:
$17,737.00
Electronic giving for the Month:
$12,449.00
Total Capital Campaign Contributions:
$30,186.00
Savings Fund Balance
$1,035,670.00
Capital Campaign
Archbishop’s Annual Appeal Update 2016
Goal
$140,700.00
Outstanding Pledges
$12,696.00
Payments to date
$17,664.00
First Sunday of Lent
Deliver Us
O saving God,
who led your Chosen People
to a land flowing with milk and honey,
nourish your Church during its Lenten fast
and rescue it from the snares of death.
Lead us out of the desert of temptation
and deliver us from evil when we call upon
your Holy Name.
May we too, find shelter in you, Almighty
One of Israel,
so that, saved from distress, we might share
in the promise of Easter.
Grant us courage when we are faced
with fear
and faith when confronted by doubt.
May our hearts forever radiate
the joy of Jesus the Christ
and remain steadfast in the face
of temptation.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Temptations
Today’s Readings: Deuteronomy 26:4–10; Psalm
91:1–2, 10–11, 12–13, 14–15; Romans 10:8–13;
Luke 4:1–13. What comes to mind when you
think about the desert? It is often depicted as a
wasteland and a land filled with danger. After
the Exodus, our ancestors wandered for forty
years in the desert, often losing faith and
turning away from God. Temptations lure us
because they seem glamorous or easy. Often,
giving in to unhealthy temptations isolates us
from God’s love and we are consumed with our
selfish desires.
The Gospel tells us that the Holy Spirit led
Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the devil.
Reflecting on Jesus’ responses to the devil, we
learn that, in the face of temptation, he remains
obedient to God. Jesus is forced to discern God’s
will and grow closer to the Father through
prayer and fasting. The image of the desert
often indicates a place for prayer, listening, and
quiet presence. In this season, we must take
time to enter the desert, trusting that the Holy
Spirit will help reveal our brokenness and lead
us to listen attentively to God and respond
openly to God’s invitation. It might be helpful to
spend a moment each day writing in a journal
about those things, ideas, or persons that tempt
you to turn away from God and your call to be a
faithful witness. It is not always easy to name
temptations, but like the Israelites, we too will
be led to the Promised Land and share in God’s
bounty. Jesus is the path to truth and freedom.
What is he asking of you?
This Week at Home
Monday, February 15, 2016
Conduct
Verses 2 and 18 in the First Reading provide two rules
for the divine-human relationship. First, we must be
holy like God; and second, we must love our neighbor.
Maybe we’ve heard it too often, but if we follow these
commands, our lives will be rooted in God. In the
Gospel, Jesus is clear that those who pour out their love
will share in the Kingdom. Perhaps you might try to
take a few moments to journal about ways you have
broken the commandments. How might you reconcile
with God, self, and neighbor? Today’s Readings:
Leviticus 19:1–2, 11–18; Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 15; Matthew 25:31–46.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Word
The illustration in the First Reading invites us to think
about God’s Word. Like the rain that nourishes the
earth, God’s Word nourishes our hearts and awakens us
so that we can spread the Good News. Jesus, the Word
made flesh, came into the world to reveal the Kingdom.
When you hear the Word, are you inspired to do God’s
will? Consider taking time to provide encouragement to
a friend. Today’s Readings: Isaiah 55:10–11; Psalm
34:4–5, 6–7, 16–17, 18–19; Matthew 6:7–15.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Repent
Are we an evil generation? Jesus uses these strong
words in the Gospel to address those who seek more
proof of his spiritual authority. They want a sign like
Jonah was for Nineveh. He called the city to repent so
that God would spare them. The role of a prophet is to
call people back into right relationship. Through the
Incarnation, God reveals himself in Jesus, the ultimate
sign of his love for us. We must repent and turn back to
God to enter the fullness of life. This evening light a
candle and slowly pray today’s psalm. Today’s
Readings: Jonah 3:1–10; Psalm 51:3–4, 12–13, 18–19;
Luke 11:29–32.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Pleading
Queen Esther’s prayer in the First Reading
acknowledges the sin of the nation and recalls God’s
faithfulness. She pleads with God to rescue them from
the enemy. The Gospel reminds us that Jesus saves us
from our enemies, our sins. We must seek God’s mercy
and then, like the psalmist, give thanks and praise when
the Lord answers our prayers and delivers us from our
brokenness. As we approach the second week of Lent,
this might be a good time to consider joining or starting
a Bible study. Today’s Readings: Esther C:12, 14–16,
23–25; Psalm 138:1–2ab, 2cde–3, 7c–8; Matthew 7:7–
12.
Friday, February 19, 2016
Turn Away
The Prophet Ezekiel is straightforward in telling the
people to turn away from sin. By casting aside their
wickedness and following the Law, they will have life.
We must strive to live a virtuous life united to Christ.
When Christ is not at the center of our lives, it is easy
to be overwhelmed by sin, which leads to destructive
relationships. If we choose a path without Christ, we
are liable to judgment. Where do you need
reconciliation? Plan to celebrate the Sacrament of
Penance during this season. Today’s Readings: Ezekiel
18:21–28; Psalm 130:1–2, 3–4, 5–7a, 7bc–8; Matthew
5:20–26.
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Love
God created us out of love, for love; Jesus calls us to
witness this love in the Gospel. He tells us to love our
neighbors and our enemies. Who is your neighbor?
What does it look like to love these neighbors? Second,
consider who your enemies are. What does it look like
to love them? God has filled us with love to share, so
think of ways you can share your love. Today’s
Readings: Deuteronomy 26:16–19; Psalm 119:1–2, 4–
5, 7–8; Matthew 5:43–48.
© 2016 Liturgy Training Publications. 1-800-933-1800. Written by Timothy A. Johnston. Illustrated by Steve
Musgrave. Scripture quotations are from The New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright ©
1993 and 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the
USA. Used by permission.
All rights reserved. Permission to publish granted by the Archdiocese of Chicago on August 21, 2015.
Reproducibles for Lent–Triduum–Easter 2016
Primer Domingo
de Cuaresma
Líbranos, Señor
Dios de la salvación,
que condujiste a tu pueblo rescatado
hasta una tierra de leche y miel,
alimenta a tu Iglesia durante
su ayuno cuaresmal
y rescátala de los lazos de la muerte.
Sácanos del desierto de la tentación
y líbranos del mal cuando invoquemos
tu nombre.
Que busquemos refugio en ti,
Dios todopoderoso, para que,
libres de toda angustia, podamos
participar de la promesa pascual.
Concédenos ser valientes cuando
confrontemos el miedo
y llénanos de fe cuando nos asalten
las dudas.
Que nuestro corazón irradie siempre
la alegría de Jesucristo
y se mantenga firme ante toda tentación.
Por Cristo nuestro Señor. Amén.
Domingo, 14 de febrero de 2016
Las tentaciones
Lecturas del día: Deuteronomio 26:4 – 10; Salmo 91:1
– 2, 10 – 11, 12 – 13, 14 – 15; Romanos 10:8 – 13; Lucas 4:1 – 13. ¿Qué viene a su mente cuando piensa en
el desierto? Lo imaginamos como un lugar árido y
lleno de peligros. Al salir de Egipto, los hebreos
caminaron durante cuarenta años en el desierto, con
frecuentes caídas en su fe y resistiéndose a la gracia
de Dios. Las tentaciones nos deslumbran porque son
atractivas y fáciles. Siempre que cedemos a
tentaciones insanas nos aislamos del amor de Dios y
nos consumimos en deseos egoístas.
El evangelio de hoy nos cuenta que el Espíritu
Santo condujo a Jesús al desierto para ser tentado
por el diablo. Pensando en las respuestas de Jesús al
diablo, aprendemos que, al encarar la tentación, él
permaneció obediente a Dios. Jesús debió discernir
la voluntad de Dios para aumentar su cercanía al
Padre mediante la oración y el ayuno.
Esta Cuaresma, démonos tiempo para adentrarnos en el desierto, sabiendo que el Espíritu
Santo nos ayudará a cobrar conciencia de nuestra
fragilidad y a escuchar cuidadosamente la voz de
Dios, para responder a su invitación. Sería de mucha
ayuda destinar un momento cada día a escribir en
un diario sobre las cosas, ideas y personas que a
usted le tientan a apartarse de Dios y de su vocación
a ser testigo fiel. No siempre es fácil nombrar las
tentaciones, pero como a los israelitas, Dios nos conduce a la Tierra Prometida para que participemos de
su abundancia. Jesús es el camino a la verdad y a la
libertad. ¿Qué es lo que él le está pidiendo?
La semana en casa
Lunes, 15 de febrero de 2016
Comportarse
En dos versos de la primera lectura de hoy, se nos dan
dos reglas para las relaciones humanas. Primera, que
debemos ser santos como Dios y, segunda, que debemos amar a nuestro prójimo. Quizá lo hayamos escuchado muchas veces, pero si seguimos esas normas,
nuestras vidas se arraigarán en Dios. ¿Cómo puede
usted reconciliarse con Dios, consigo mismo y con sus
prójimos? Lecturas del día: Levítico 19:1 – 2, 11 – 18;
Salmo 19:8, 9, 10, 15; Mateo 25:31 – 46.
Martes, 16 de febrero de 2016
La palabra
Como la lluvia que nutre la tierra, la palabra de Dios
alimenta nuestro corazón y nos despierta a divulgar la
Buena Nueva. Jesús, la Palabra hecha carne, vino a la
tierra a revelar el Reino. Al escuchar la Palabra, ¿se
siente inspirado a realizar la voluntad de Dios? Piense
por un momento en cómo animar a un amigo. Lecturas
del día: Isaías 55:10 –11;
Salmo 34:4 – 5, 6 – 7, 16 – 17, 18 – 19; Mateo 6:7 – 15.
Miércoles, 17 de febrero de 2016 Arrepentimiento
¿Somos una generación perversa? Jesús usa palabras
muy fuertes al dirigirse a los que buscan una prueba de
su autoridad espiritual. Quieren una señal, como lo fue
Jonás para Nínive. El profeta llamó a la ciudad al arrepentimiento para evitar el castigo por sus pecados. El
papel del enviado divino es ése: invitar a la gente a una
buena relación. Mediante la Encarnación, Dios mismo
se da a conocer en Jesús, señal definitiva de su amor
por nosotros. Debemos arrepentirnos y volver a Dios
con un corazón contrito, para adentrarnos en la plenitud
de la vida. La tarde de hoy, encienda una vela y ore
pausadamente el salmo del día. Lecturas del día:
Jonás 3:1 – 10; Salmo 51:3 – 4, 12 – 13, 18 – 19; Lucas
11:29 – 32.
Jueves, 18 de febrero de 2016
Súplica
La oración de la reina Esther, en la primera lectura, reconoce el pecado de la nación pero invoca la fidelidad
de Dios. Ella le suplica que los rescate ahora de los enemigos. El evangelio nos recuerda que Jesús nos salva
de nuestros enemigos, nuestros pecados. Debemos buscar la misericordia de Dios y, como el salmista, dar gracias y alabar al Señor por atender nuestras oraciones y
librarnos de nuestra fragilidad. Al acercarnos a la segunda semana de Cuaresma, piense usted en unirse a
algún grupo de reflexión bíblica. Lecturas del día:
Esther C:12, 14 – 16, 23 – 25; Salmo 138:1 – 2ab, 2cde
– 3, 7c – 8; Mateo 7:7 – 12.
Viernes, 19 de febrero de 2016
Alejarse
El profeta Ezequiel es muy directo al decirle al pueblo
que abandonen el pecado. Si dejan de lado su maldad y
siguen la Ley tendrán vida. Debemos esforzarnos por
una vida virtuosa unidos a Cristo. Si Cristo no es el
centro de nuestra vida, el pecado nos dominará y nos
llevará a relaciones destructivas. De elegir caminar sin
Cristo, nos volvemos reos de juicio. ¿Dónde necesita
usted reconciliarse? Prepárese y acérquese al sacramento de la reconciliación durante esta Cuaresma. Lecturas del día: Ezequiel 18:21 – 28; Salmo 130:1 – 2, 3
– 4, 5 – 7a, 7bc – 8; Mateo 5:20 – 26.
Sábado, 20 de febrero de 2016
Amar
Dios nos creó con amor y por amor. En el evangelio,
Jesús nos invita a dar testimonio de este amor. Él nos
impulsa a amar a nuestro prójimo y a nuestros enemigos. ¿Conoce usted a su prójimo? ¿Cómo puede usted
amarlo? Pero también piense en sus enemigos. ¿Cómo
puede usted amarlos? Dios nos ha llenado de amor para
poder darlo. Medite en las formas como puede compartir su amor. Lecturas del día: Deuteronomio 26:16 – 19;
Salmo 119:1 – 2, 4 – 5, 7 – 8; Mateo 5:43 – 48.
© 2016 Liturgy Training Publications. 1-800-933-1800. Texto de Timothy A. Johnston. Traducción de Ricardo López. Ilustración de Steve Musgrave. Texto bíblico conforme a La Biblia de nuestro pueblo. Biblia del peregrino (2011), con el debido permiso. Aprobación canónica de la Arquidiócesis de Chicago, 4 de septiembre de 2015.
Recursos reproducibles para Cuaresma–Triduo Pascual–Pascua 2016