From Father Steven - March 5, 2023

Dear Brothers & Sisters,
 
On this Second Sunday of Lent, we are presented with Mount Tabor, where the Transfiguration of Our Lord takes place. On the first reading, we hear Abram (Abraham) being invited by God to leave his house in order to start a journey with the Lord. During this time of Lent we are all called to (re)start/continue our Divine journey as well. This journey we know leads us to experience a transfiguration like Jesus. This transformation is not about being a better person or correcting the mistakes in life, but rather to be like Christ. It means that God wants us to experience His glory, which is manifested in the resurrection of the dead. This Gospel is placed on the second week of Lent to help us to be focused on our goal during this time, namely, Easter. It is on Easter where we have the possibility to experience the resurrection of Christ. However, every time we are forgiven in the sacrament of the reconciliation we experience this same resurrection. From the death of sin, we pass over to life with God. Also, when we are reconciled with each other whether a spouse, siblings, children. As Abraham was invited to leave behind the security and the comfort to follow the call of the Lord, we are all called to discern what He is inviting us to do.
 
On a similar note, we have people here in the parish who have recently started their journey with the Lord. These brothers and sisters are preparing themselves to become Catholics this Easter. They all will be baptized, receive first communion and be confirmed. Last week they all were welcomed by the Cardinal to the Church at the Cathedral along with everyone else who will be baptized on Easter. Therefore, with great joy, I would like to present them to you and ask for your prayers to them. They are: Nina, Kirby, Andrea, Jackie, Tayla, Anabella, Ana Carolina, Samuel, Isabelly, Matheus, Milena, Luiza, Soffi, Sofia, Gabriel, Stephany, Sofia Martins, Ruan, Lucas, and Rhoger. Each week there will be different rituals at the 9am, 11am, and 1pm Mass as part of their preparations. Feel free to join us!  
 
God Bless,
Fr. Steven

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