The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. Mark 1:12-15 We Are A Stewardship Parish, The Hands and Feet of Christ “One Lord, One Eucharist, One Parish” First Sunday of Lent February 22nd, 2015 9950 NW 29th Street Coral Springs, Florida 33065 Parish Office: (954) 752-3950 Fax (954) 752-3986 Website: www.standrewparish.org E-mail: [email protected] Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/StAndrewCC Twitter: http://twitter.com/standrewCC Office Hours: Monday 2pm -5pm; Tuesday - Friday 8am - 5pm; Saturday 9am - 5pm & Sunday 9am - 3pm About Us Clergy Rev. Msgr. Michael A. Souckar - Pastor Rev. Flavio Montes - Parochial Vicar Rev. Jorge Perales - Parochial Vicar Rev. Normando Feliz - (Retired) Rev. Mr. Denis Mieyal - Permanent Deacon Rev. Mr. Julio De Jesus - Transitional Deacon Pastoral Staff Mrs. Lydia Bernard-Vargas Director of Preschool 954-905-6374 Mrs. Beatriz Castro Coordinator of Religious Education 954-905-6322 Mrs. Mosi Del Aguila Stewardship Coordinator 954-905-6314 Miss Mary Forney Youth 4 Christ Minister & Director of Faith Formation 954-588-8667 - 954-905-6332 Schedule Vigil and Sunday Mass Schedule Saturday Evening Mass: (English) 5:30 p.m. & (Spanish) 7:00 p.m. Sunday Masses: (English) 7:00, 8:00, 9:30 (Children’s Mass), 11:30 a.m., 5:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. (Spanish) Daily Mass Schedule Monday - Friday 7 a.m., 9 a.m. Monday - Friday (Spanish) 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. Confession Saturday (English & Spanish) 4:30pm - 5:30pm Sunday (Before Mass) 9am, 11am & 1pm Wednesday 7:00 - 8:00pm Adoration Chapel Weekday by appointment only (please call the office) Adoration Perpetual Adoration in Adoration Chapel Matrimony Please contact the Office at least 6 month prior to wedding. Baptism Please contact the office in advance. Baptismal Classes are offered in English & Spanish. Mrs. Kristen Hughes School Principal 954-753-1280 Mrs. Maria Elena Kaplove Bookkeeper 954-905-6321 Faith Direct www.faithdirect.net Code: FL619 Mrs. Suzanne League Receptionist 954-752-3950 Mrs. Shelly Nicoll Administrative Assistant 954-905-6317 Mrs. Mary Lou Taff Music Director 954-905-6335 Outreach Department Volunteers 954-905-6316 Upcoming Events in The Parish Febrero 28 - Retiro de la Divina Misericordia March 2nd - 4th — Lenten Mission March 7th - 1st Communion Retreat Marzo 9 al 11 - Misión de Cuaresma March 8th - Daylight Saving Time Starts March 14th - 1st Communion Retreat March 20th - No School March 21st — Women’s Council Morning of Reflection March 27th — Living Stations of the Cross March 27th & 28th - Reconciliation Weekend March 28th - Palm Sunday March 28th to April 4th - Holy week MARK YOUR CALENDARS MONDAY, February 23rd, 2015 ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP (7:00PM - MPR) MEN’S CLUB BOARD MEETING (7:00PM - SOCIAL HALL) YOUTH GROUP MUSIC REHEARSAL (7:30PM - CHURCH) TUESDAY, February 24th, 2015 ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) CHILDREN’S CHOIR PRACTICE (3:15PM - CHURCH) R.E. CLASSES (4:00PM - SCHOOL) R.E. CLASSES (6:00PM - SCHOOL) GRUPO SEMILLA MEETING (7:00PM - MPR) ENSAYO DEL CORO DE LOS SABADOS (7:30PM - CHURCH) YOUNG ADULTS MEETING (7:30PM - YOUTH MINISTRY ROOM) WEDNESDAY, February 25th, 2015 ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) ST. VINCENT DE PAUL MINISTRY MEETING (8:45AM - PARISH OFFICE) CHILDREN’S HANDBELL CHOIR (3:15PM - CHURCH) ROSARY FOR LIFE (6PM - CHURCH/CHAPEL) LEGION DE MARIA (7:30PM - CR # 121) ESCUELA BÍBLICA CATÓLICA YESHU’A (7:30PM - CR # 220) ENSAYO DEL CORO DEL DOMINGO (7:30PM - CHURCH) THURSDAY, February 26th, 2015 ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) R.E. CLASSES (4:00PM - SCHOOL) R.E. CLASSES (6:00PM - SCHOOL) ADULT CONFIRMATION CLASSES (7PM - CR # 121) ADULT CHOIR PRACTICE (7:30PM - CHURCH) FRIDAY, February 27th, 2015 ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) STATIONS OF THE CROSS (9:30AM - CHURCH) STATIONS OF THE CROSS (6:00PM - CHURCH) LENTEN SUPPER (5:00PM - SOCIAL HALL) VIA CRUCIS (7:30PM - CHURCH/CHAPEL) SATURDAY, February 28th, 2015 RETIRO DE LA DIVINA MISERICORDIA - AMOR EN ACCION ROSARY GROUP (8:20AM - CHAPEL) R.E. RECONCILIATION (9:00AM - SCHOOL) REZO DE LA CORONILLA (8:15PM - CHURCH/CHAPEL) SUNDAY, March 1st, 2015 RCIA CLASS (10AM - MEDIA CENTER) RCIA CLASS CHILDREN (10:30AM - CR 126 & 221) RICA ESPAÑOL (11:30AM - CR # 121) REZO DEL ROSARIO EN ESPAÑOL (2:45PM - CHURCH/CHAPEL) YOUTH 4 CHRIST - HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH MINISTRY (6:45PM) DO YOU HAVE ONE HOUR TO SPARE FOR JESUS? Sign up for Adoration, Jesus is waiting for you. Bettina Favata 954-654-5614 Mary Alice 954-796-2266 Marie Campos 954-341-5350 Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths. — Psalm 25:4 MASS INTENTIONS Sunday, February 22nd, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Perales 8:00AM Fr. Montes Elly Stanton by Kathy Chiarelo The Narducci, Iannotta, & Mc Kenna Families by The Narducci, Iannotta, & Mc Kenna Families Geanne Sullivan Pirylis by The Restrepo Nolan Family Josephine Maida by The Szachor Family Irma Ruth Cortés por Sus Hermanas Saint Andrew Parishioners 9:30AM Msgr. Souckar 11:30AM Fr. Montes 1:30PM TBA 5:30PM TBA Monday, February 23rd, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Montes 9:00AM Msgr. Souckar 7:00PM Fr. Perales Jose Heriberto & Clara E. Gutierrez by Maria Penagos Victor M. Lagoa, Jr.’s Birthday (Living) by The Zegeer Family Anita Roldan por La Familia Tuesday, February 24th, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Perales 9:00AM Fr. Fenger 7:00PM Fr. Perales Maria Teresa de Sanchez by Daniel & Gladys Sanchez Victor M. Lagoa, Sr. by The Zegeer Family Flor Elena Angulo por Su Esposo e Hijos Wednesday, February 25th, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Perales 9:00AM Fr. Montes 7:00PM Fr. Montes Angelica Maria Gutierrez (Living) by Maria Penagos Nancy Troise by Ronald & Barbara Servedio Anabel García por el Dr. Jorge Queija Thursday, February 26th, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Montes 9:00AM Fr. Montes 7:00PM Fr. Feliz Pasquale Pieto by His Wife, Natalie In Thanks to The Infant of Prague by Michelaine Dean Arturo Maldonado & Eleonora Marín de Maldonado por Su Hija, Genny Nuge Friday, February 27th, 2015 7:00AM Fr. Perales 9:00AM Fr. Montes 7:00PM Fr. Perales Fr. Eric Zegeer’s Birthday (Living) by The Zegeer Family Frank & Clara Morea by Grace Locurto Mariela Zapata por Su Familia Saturday, February 28th, 2015 9:00AM Fr. Perales 5:30PM Msgr. Souckar 7:00PM Fr. Montes Community Mass Burk Hart by Jerry & Gail McLellan Almira Martinez por Su Hija Sunday, March 1st, 2015 7:00AM Msgr. Souckar 8:00AM Fr. Perales 9:30AM Fr. Montes 11:30AM Msgr. Souckar 1:30PM Fr. Perales 5:30PM Fr. Perales Saint Andrew Parishioners Alan Nosowicz by The Schnell Family Helen Maher by John & Eleanor Sciacca Nancy Rodriguez-Chu by Her Family Eloisa de Correa por Su Hija y Familia Mr. & Mrs. Leo Raby by Joanne Vollmar Lent / Cuaresma Stations of the Cross / Vía Crucis 9:30am and 6:00pm (english) and 7:30 (español) February 20th, 27th, March 6th, 13th and 20th Living Stations of the Cross / Vía Crucis en Vivo Friday, March 27th at 8pm Viernes 27 de Marzo a las 8pm For the Sake of Jesus Christ Dear Parishioners of Saint Andrew: As we begin the Holy Season of Lent, the passion and suffering of Christ is not a distant historical memory. The agony of the cross continues today for the Church ‒ the Body of Christ ‒ in parts of the Middle East and Africa. As you likely have heard in media reports, 21 Coptic Orthodox men were recently beheaded by the self-proclaimed Islamic State in Libya. In the gruesome video released, Mr. Malak Shoukry recognized his brother among the men who knelt in prayer before they were murdered. “I prayed for his soul,” he said, “I heard him calling, ‘Oh Jesus,’ as he was beheaded. I’m proud of him. He is a martyr for Christ.” Yes, these men – our brothers in the faith – are martyrs for Jesus Christ. As Pope Francis said when he learned of the news, “They were killed simply for the fact that they were Christians”. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “Martyrdom is the supreme witness given to the truth of the faith: it means bearing witness even unto death. The martyr bears witness to Christ who died and rose, to whom he is united by charity. He bears witness to the truth of the faith and of Christian doctrine. He endures death through and act of fortitude” (par. 2473). Clearly these Coptic Orthodox men have borne witness to Christ, as have many other Catholic, Orthodox and Christian men, women and children who have been killed by fundamentalist Islamic terrorists because of their faith in Jesus Christ. During Lent, we are asked to reflect on how well we are bearing authentic witness to Christ in our daily lives. By our baptism we are all called to give witness to the truth of Jesus Christ and his Gospel of salvation for all. As the Catechism states: “The duty of Christians to take part in the life of the Church impels them to act as witnesses of the Gospel and the obligations that flow from it. This witness is a transmission of the faith in words and deeds” (par. 2472). Lent is an opportunity for us to change our lives so that our words and deeds give a more authentic witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are all called to give our lives to Christ and for Christ. God willing, we will not face the martyrdom embraced by the 21 Coptic Orthodox men. I do hope that we will use this Lent and its traditional practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to be in solidarity with those who face suffering, persecution and even death “simply for the fact that they are Christians”. Please consider how you will be in prayerful solidarity with the Catholic, Orthodox and Christian communities of the Middle East and parts of Africa who this year are sharing in the passion of Christ for the salvation of the world. As Saint Paul wrote: “But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body. For we who live are constantly being given up to death for the sake of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh” (2 Corinthians 4: 7-11). May the Lord continue to bless you and your family with His love! Monsignor Michael A. Souckar Por el bien de Jesucristo Queridos Feligreses de Saint Andrew: Al comenzar el Tiempo Santo de Cuaresma, la pasión y el sufrimiento de Cristo no es un recuerdo histórico distante. La agonía de la cruz continúa en la actualidad para la Iglesia - el Cuerpo de Cristo - en partes del Medio Oriente y África. Como ya han de haber escuchado en informes de prensa, 21 hombres Ortodoxos Copta fueron decapitados recientemente por el Estado Islámico en Libia. En el horroroso video, el Sr. Malak Shoukry reconoció a su hermano entre los hombres que se arrodillaron en oración antes de ser asesinados. "Recé por su alma", dijo, "le oí llamar, ‘Oh Jesús’, al ser decapitado. Estoy orgulloso de él. Él es un mártir de Cristo". Sí, estos hombres - Nuestros hermanos en la fe - son mártires de Jesucristo. Como el Papa Francisco dijo cuando se enteró de la noticia, "Fueron asesinados simplemente por el hecho de que eran Cristianos". El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica enseña que "El martirio es el supremo testimonio de la verdad de la fe: significa dar testimonio inclusive hasta la muerte. El mártir da testimonio de Cristo, muerto y resucitado, al cual está unido por la caridad. Él da testimonio de la verdad de la fe y de la doctrina cristiana. Soporta la muerte mediante un acto de fortaleza" (par 2473). Es evidente que estos hombres Ortodoxos Copta dieron testimonio de Cristo, al igual que muchos otros católicos, hombres ortodoxos y cristianos, mujeres y niños que han sido asesinados por los terroristas islámicos fundamentalistas a causa de su fe en Jesucristo. Durante la Cuaresma se nos pide reflexionar sobre como nuestra vida cotidiana está siendo testimonio autentico de Cristo. Por nuestro bautismo estamos llamados a dar testimonio de la verdad de Jesucristo y de su Evangelio de salvación para todos. Como afirma el Catecismo: "El deber de los cristianos de tomar parte en la vida de la Iglesia los impulsa a actuar como testigos del Evangelio y las obligaciones que se derivan de ella. Este testimonio es transmisión de la fe en palabras y hechos". (Par 2472). La Cuaresma es una oportunidad para que nosotros cambiemos nuestras vidas dando un testimonio mas autentico del Evangelio de Jesucristo Todos estamos llamados a dar la vida por Cristo y para Cristo. Si Dios quiere, no vamos a enfrentar el martirio aceptado por los 21 hombres Ortodoxos Copta. Espero que utilizemos esta Cuaresma y sus prácticas tradicionales de la oración, ayuno y penitencia para ser solidarios con los que enfrentan el s ufrimiento, la persecución e incluso la muerte "por el simple hecho de ser cristianos". Por favor, considere cómo va a unirse en oración con los católicos, ortodoxos y a las comunidades cristianas del Medio Oriente y partes de Africa, que este año participan de la pasión de Cristo para la salvación del mundo. Como San Pablo escribió: "Con todo, llevamos este tesoro en vasos de barro, para que esta fuerza soberana se vea como obra de Dios y no nuestra. Nos sobrevienen pruebas de toda clase, pero no nos desanimamos; estamos entre problemas, pero no desesperados; somos perseguidos, pero no eliminados; derribados, pero no fuera de combate. Por todas partes llevamos en nuestra persona la muerte de Jesús, para que también la vida de Jesús se manifieste en nuestra persona. Pues a los que estamos vivimos nos corresponde ser entregados a la muerte a cada momento por causa de Jesús, para que la vida de Jesús se manifieste en nuestra existencia mortal" (2 Corintios 4:7-11). ¡Qué el Señor los siga bendiciendo a usted y su familia con su amor! Monseñor Michael A.Souckar ABCD 2015 CAMPAIGN Archbishop’s Charities & Development Drive Parish Goal : $ 250,275.00 Thank you to those who have generously supported the 2015 ABCD Campaign. To date, the members of our parish through their generosity have helped us reach $ 136,043.00 Thank you! To those who have not had the opportunity to consider a gift, it is not too late. CAMPAÑA 2015 DEL ABCD Campaña de las Caridades del Arzobispo Meta Parroquial: $ 250,275.00 Gracias a todos los que han apoyado con su aporte generoso a la Campaña del ABCD 2015. ¡Gracias! Nuestro parroquianos con su generosidad nos han ayudado a llegar a $136,043.00 Los que no han tenido la oportunidad de contribuir, todavía pueden hacerlo. Día Reflexión y Discernimiento Con Teresita González y Mónica Lauzurique Arquidiócesis de Miami - Amor en Acción— Misioneros de Esperanza Para Líderes de Ministerio, Catequistas y personas que quieran descubrir su Misión ¿Cuáles son tus dones y talentos ? ¿Cuál es tu vocación ? ¿Cuál es la misión que tienes que hacer en este mundo? Nuestro mundo está hambriento de líderes cristianos que reflejen a Jesús en todo tiempo que contagian una nueva vida con su testimonio y que mantienen joven a la Iglesia con su alegría y su vitalidad.. Sábado 28 de Febrero 2015 a las 9:30AM - 3PM Salón Parroquial de St. Andrew Donación $10 (Desayuno y Refrigerio medio día) A P O S TO L A D O D I V I NA M I S E R I C O R D I A PATRICIA 954 851 3930/ MA. ESTER 954 656 7219 SEPAREN LA FECHA - LOS ESPERAMOS Misión Cuaresmal Padre Miguel Gonzalez, Diócesis de Orlando Marzo 9, 10 & 11, 2015 7:30 pm. Iglesia de Saint Andrew RESPECT LIFE CORNER 60 closed abortion centers WHAT GOD CAN DO THROUGH YOU Ten years ago, the first-ever 40 Days for Life campaign kicked off in College Station, Texas. Since then, God has clearly shown what He can do when we pray, fast ... and stand vigil: Lives are saved, hearts are changed, and abortion facilities close. From February 18 to March 29, our community will be taking part in the next 40 Days for Life. The campaign will kick off on February 18th in 252 cities across 19 countries around the world. We are praying that, with God's help, this groundbreaking effort will mark the beginning of the end of abortion in Fort Lauderdale and beyond! Through past 40 Days for Life campaigns, God has provided many blessings: 9,699 babies saved from abortion 107 workers who have quit the abortion industry Let’s hope and pray that during the next 40 Days, more lives will be spared from abortion, more workers will experience conversions, and more abortion centers will close their doors forever. St. Andrew will join the vigil in front of the Fort Lauderdale Women's Clinic, located at 2001 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Oakland Park, Florida at a later date. Details will be forthcoming in future bulletins. For more information, please contact John Aman, Leader of the 40 Days for Life Campaign in Fort Lauderdale at 954-540-8560, or sign up at: www.40daysforlife.com/local-campaigns/fort-lauderdale to join the current vigil. Respect Life (954) 977-7769 Project Rachel 1-888-456-4673 “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you (Jeremiah 1:5) LENT REFLEXION REFLEXION DE CUARESMA Living Stewardship Now Fast from fear, feast on faith. Fast from despair, feed on hope. Fast from depressing news, feed on prayer. Fast from discontent, feast on gratitude. Fast from anger and worry, feed on patience. Fast from negative thinking, feast on positive thinking. Fast from bitterness, feed on love and forgiveness. Fast from words that wound, feast on words that heal. Fast from gravity, feast on joy and humor. La Corresponsabilidad Vivida Ahora Haz ayuno del temor y aliméntate con la fe. Haz ayuno de la desesperación y aliméntate con la esperanza. Haz ayuno de las noticias depresivas y aliméntate con la oración. Haz ayuno del descontento y aliméntate con la gratitud. Haz ayuno del enojo y la preocupación, y aliméntate con la paciencia. Haz ayuno de pensar negativamente y aliméntate con pensamientos positivos. Haz ayuno de la amargura y aliméntate con el amor y el perdón. Haz ayuno de palabras que hieren y aliméntate con palabras que sanan. Haz ayuno de la seriedad, y aliméntate con la alegría y el buen humor. Around the Diocese Catholic Legal Services - Archdiocese of Miami, Inc., Catholic Legal Services - Archdiocese of Miami, Inc., con Catholic Legal Services - Archdiocese of Miami, los provedores y voluntarios de servicios legales, y The Inc., along with a coalition of legal service providers New Americans Campaign se han juntado para proveer and volunteers, have teamed up with The New asistencia a cualquier residente legal que necesita Americans Campaign to provide assistance to any presentarse para adquirir la ciudadanía de U.S. citizen- legal residents that are looking to apply for U.S. citiship. Los residents legales permanents (LPRs) pueden zenship. Eligible legal permanent residents (LPRs) hacerse ciudadsnos americanos al completer las formas can become U.S. citizens by completing naturalizade naturalización el Sábado 7 de marzo de10 a.m.-2 p.m. tion applications on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. en Hialeah High School. Los servicios legales serán com- -2 p.m. at Hialeah High School. The legal services pletados de gratis. Sin embargo, hay un pago de $680 will be completely free. However, there is a USCIS que se tiene que hacer para migraciones (USCIS). US$680 application fee. USCIS may waive the $680 CIS podría no cobrarles los $680 fee a los aplicantes que fee applicants receive food stamps, Medicaid or reciben food stamps, Medicaid or SSI. Para registrarse, SSI. To register, applicants must visit los aplicantes deben visitar www.citizenshipflorida.org y www.citizenshipflorida.org and select “Applicant seleccionar “Applicant Registration.” Registration.” St. Joseph’s Retirement Residence A caring Assisted Living facility, sponsored by the Archdiocese of Miami, offering beautifully furnished apartments or suites with a 24/7 nurse on duty and emergency pull cord systems. We provide three delicious meals serve daily in our dining room, weekly housekeeping and laundry, plus a full-time Activities Director. We also offer assistance in bathing, dressing, and monitoring medications. The Residence has a beautiful chapel offering scheduled and private worship for all faiths. All this for a reasonable monthly rate. Call for more information: 954-739-1483 Archdiocese of Miami Development Corporation Planned Giving Bulletin Announcements “How shall I make a return to the Lord for all he has done for me?” Psalm 116:12 As we are examining our lives during lent, it is a good time to also examine all we own. Do we need to clean house? Do you own something you no longer need but could help the Church? That something may be an old life insurance policy. You can give your no longer needed insurance policies to Saint Andrew Parish. If the policy has a cash value, you may also get a tax deduction. For more information, contact the rectory or call the Office of Planned Giving at (305) 762-1110. CATHOLIC CONVERSATIONS ON THE SCRIPTURES Archdiocese of Miami - Office of Lay Ministry and Adult Faith Formation February 22, 2015 First Sunday of Lent Gospel reading Mark 1:12-15 [To be read aloud] The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him. After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: ―This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” Brief commentary: Lent is the yearly liturgical season of repentance and penance, a call to conversion of heart, mind, and life. It is a recommitment to the Gospel. It is a season that calls us to a forty-day journey through the desert of self-denial so that we can follow Jesus Christ more completely and love our neighbor more sincerely. It is a renewal of our baptismal reality: of sharing in the suffering and death of Jesus and thus have a share in his glorious resurrection. It is the final stage for the catechumens as they prepare for in-corpo-ration into the Body of Christ, the Church, through the sacraments of initiation. Lent is a spiritual exercise that trains us to more decisively reject sin and to love God with all our being. It is an invitation to believe more wholeheartedly in the Gospel. Today‘s reading from Genesis of the Flood story finds liturgical expression with the blessing of the baptismal waters: ―The waters of the great flood you made a sign of the waters of baptism, that make an end of sin and a new beginning of goodness.ǁ With the responsorial psalm we pray asking God to guide and teach us loyalty toward his holy Covenant. The first letter of Peter reflects the Christian experience of death to the old self and new life in Jesus Christ through the baptismal sharing in his death and resurrection. Lent is an invitation to be open to – and respond concretely to – God‘s Holy Spirit, God‘s life-giving grace, that reaches deep in us through the crucified and risen Lord. It is this Spirit who ―drove Jesus out into the desertǁ of this world, with the trials of life he faced and many difficulties he experienced throughout his mission. Like Jesus, we too journey through the beautiful – but often-time difficult and dangerous – desert of life ―among the wild beastsǁ of temptations, opposition to goodness within ourselves and around us, tests and difficulties. But like Jesus, we too are ministered by the ―angels,ǁ by people who come to our help and encouragement to be holy and just, and by God‘s Holy Spirit, by God‘s strengthening grace. Christians of faith are those who constantly rely on God‘s Spirit and grace, not on their own strength and understanding alone. Today‘s gospel reading from Mark recalls the beginnings of Jesus‘ ministry, characterized by a call toward selfdenial, total commitment to the cause of God‘s kingdom, and a call to repentance and faith. It is a clarion call: ―This is the time of fulfillmentǁ – now is the time of salvation. It is a graced invitation and opportunity, it is good news, it is the Gospel: ―the kingdom of God is at hand.ǁ This Lent, with Holy Week and the Easter Season it leads us to, will be a renewal of our faith and life in Jesus Christ, of our identity as Christians, of our mission as the Catholic Church to the world. The desert will bloom with the water of new life and produce abundant fruit for the divine kingdom, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Today’s reading offers significant messages: • The liturgical season of Lent calls us to more consciously and more totally share in the dying and rising of Christ, and all that it means. • Lent is characterized by self-denial, a more engaged service to our neighbor, and a recommitment to the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. • As the Spirit led Jesus throughout his life, so also our lives as Christians do not depend solely on our strength: to be Christian is to be led and strengthened by the Spirit who anointed and filled Jesus Christ. For our shared or personal reflection: After a brief pause for silent reflection share your answers, ideas or feelings. • How will I say ‗no‘ to sin this Lent and say ‗yes‘ to God? • What are the temptations and oppositions to a greater love of God and neighbor that I face? How can I depend more on the Holy Spirit to help me overcome these? • What does it mean to share in the suffering and death of Jesus, and in his resurrection? How is baptism a sacramental experience of this? How do I – how can I – live this baptismal reality daily? Suggested readings: Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraphs 535-42 Buck of the Month Envelope Please use your “Buck of the Month” envelope to help support Saint Andrew School. Your generosity is appreciated and will help us to pass on the Catholic Faith to the next generation! REFLEXIONES CATÓLICAS SOBRE LA BIBLIA Arquidiócesis de Miami - Oficina de Ministerios Laicos y Formación de Adultos en la Fe 22 de Febrero de 2015 Primer Domingo de Cuaresma (Ciclo B) Lectura del santo Evangelio según San Marcos 1:12-15 En aquel tiempo, el Espíritu llevo a Jesús al desierto. Se quedó en el desierto cuarenta días, dejándose tentar por Satanás; vivía entre las fieras, y los ángeles le servían. Cuando arrestaron a Juan, Jesús se marchó a Galilea a proclamar el Evangelio de Dios. Decía: “Se ha cumplido el plazo, está cerca el reino de Dios: Arrepentíos y creed en el Evangelio.” Comentario breve: La Cuaresma es el tiempo litúrgico anual de arrepentimiento y penitencia, un llamado a la conversión de corazón, mente, y vida. Es el compromiso renovado al evangelio. Es el tiempo que nos llama a una jornada de cuarenta días a través del desierto de la abnegación para así poder seguir a Jesucristo mas completamente y amar a nuestro prójimo mas sinceramente. Es una renovación de nuestra realidad como bautizados: de participar en la pasión y muerte de Jesús y así compartir en su gloriosa resurrección. Es la fase final de los catecúmenos mientras que se preparan a ser in-corpo-rados al Cuerpo de Cristo, la Iglesia, a través de los sacramentos de iniciación. La Cuaresma es un ejercicio espiritual que nos entrena a rechazar al pecado mas decisivamente y a amor a Dios con todo nuestro ser. Es una invitación para creer mas totalmente en el Evangelio. La lectura del Diluvio tomada del Génesis encuentra expresión litúrgica en la bendición de las aguas bautismales: “Las aguas del gran diluvio hiciste señal de las aguas del bautismo, que pusieron fin al pecado y inauguro un nuevo comienzo de bien.” Con el salmo responsorial le pedimos a Dios que nos guie y nos eduque a ser leales a su santa Alianza. La primera carta de Pedro reflexiona sobre la experiencia cristiana de muerte al „hombre viejo‟ y nueva vida en Jesucristo a través de la participación bautismal en su muerte y resurrección. La Cuaresma es una invitación a abrirnos a – y responder concretamente a – el Espíritu Santo de Dios, a la gracia vivificadora de Dios, que nos llega profundamente a través de Señor crucificado y resucitado. Es este Espíritu que “llevo a Jesús hacia el desierto” de este mundo, con las pruebas que conlleva y con las muchas dificultados que experimento a lo largo de su misión. Pero como Jesús, también nosotros „servidos por los ángeles‟, por personas que vienen a nuestra ayuda y nos animan a ser santos y justos, y por el Espíritu Santo de Dios, por su gracia que nos fortalece. Los cristianos con fe son los que constantemente dependen del Espíritu y gracia divina, no en sus fuerzas y conocimiento solamente. El evangelio de hoy tomado de Marcos recuerda los principios del ministerio de Jesús, caracterizado por un llamado a la abnegación, compromiso total a la causa del reinado de Dios, y al arrepentimiento y fe. Es un anuncio: “¡Se ha cumplido el plazo!” – ahora es el tiempo de salvación. Es una invitación y oportunidad de gracia, es buena nueva, es el evangelio: “¡El reinado de Dios esta cerca!” Esta Cuaresma, con la Semana Santa y tiempo de Pascua de Resurrección, para la cual nos prepara, renovara nuestra fe y vida en Jesucristo, renovara nuestra identidad como cristianos, y nuestra misión como la Iglesia Católica al mundo. El desierto florecerá con el agua de vida nueva y producirá abundante fruto para el reino divino, por el poder del Espíritu Santo. La lectura de hoy nos presenta tres ideas importantes: • El tiempo litúrgico de Cuaresma nos llama a mas conscientemente y mas totalmente compartir en la muerte y resurrección de Cristo, con todo lo que esto significa. • La Cuaresma es caracterizado por la abnegación, un servicio mas total a nuestro prójimo, y un compromiso al Evangelio de Reino de Dios. • Así como el Espíritu guío a Jesús a lo largo de su vida, también nosotros los cristianos no dependemos solamente en nuestra propia fuerza: ser cristiano significa ser guiado y fortalecido por el Espíritu que ungió y lleno a Jesucristo. Para la reflexión personal o comunitaria: Después de una pausa breve para reflexionar en silencio, comparta con otros sus ideas o sentimientos. • ¿Cómo le diré „no‟ al pecado esta Cuaresma y como diré „si‟ a Dios? • ¿Cuáles son las tentaciones y oposiciones a un mayor amor a Dios y al prójimo que confronto? ¿Cómo puedo depender mas en el Espíritu Santo para ayudarme a supéralas? • ¿Qué significa compartir el sufrimiento y muerte de Jesús, y compartir su resurrección? ¿Cómo es el bautismo una experiencia sacramental de esto? ¿Cómo yo – como puedo yo – vivir esta realidad bautismal diariamente? Lecturas recomendadas: Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica, párrafos 535-42 Oración por las Vocaciones Señor, déjame saber claramente el trabajo al cual Tú me llamas en la vida, y concédeme la gracia que necesito para responder a tu llamada con valentía, amor y dedicación a tu voluntad. Please Keep Our Service Men & Women in Your Prayers Chelsea Madarang Edward Harrison Frank Volpe Jennifer Carns John F. Marion Tommy Simmons Scott Crossley Andres Donoso Luis Carlo Moyano Michael Schnable Christopher Holting Scott Maricic Kasper Hein Jason Jonathan Alton Pelayo Anita Scattone Michael Patrick Rosa Anthony Monte Kenneth Kozlowski Michael Melione George E. Ellis, Jr. Joshua Hunter Joseph Langlois II William Kasten Trevor Anderson John Hughes James Cant Jimmie Holland Joshua Trulock Aaron Brill Joseph Vera Mario Alejandrino Gabrielle Alejandrino Cristian Oviedo Chris Ducharme Marco Monroy Randy Renneisen Roberto Gouveia Jonathan Hall Ray Gallimore Adam Cordiviola Sandra Ibañez Laura Lee Flannery Allan Park Brandon Trubey Matthew Desmond Thomas Lucas Paul R. Alexander Dena DeLucia Charles Flanagan Joshua O’Shea Andrew Narr Prem David Giraldo Francis J. Harrington, Jr Josh Beans Greg Rich Ed Winters Sterling Deleridge Chad Michael Lopez Jason Lopez Peter Santini Ashley M. King Jonathan Slinkard Johnny Jimenez Alejandro Gonzalez J.C. Velasco Elena David DeLillis Adam Lewis Ryan Hartnett Angie Johnson Matthew Imm Joshua Cohen Andrew Holston David Anthony Long William Antczak Michelle Svec Luisa Galeano Miles Mayo William Sciacca Vernon K. Barnes Joseph Andersen Alex Rhino Fred Rhino Christian Lopez Jorge Bondy Russell Di Giacomo Thomas J. Martino Michael Fonda George Kaiser John Melo George Casey Stephen Grob *PLEASE NOTE* Please call if you have a friend or loved one in the military that you would like to add in our prayer list. 954-905-6317 Please use your envelopes. They are the principal source of Parish Support. Justice Corner February 22, 2015 Lenten Traditions Today’s readings show us the lengths to which God will go to save us. He established a Covenant with Noah, sent Jesus to pay for our sins, and protects us from being overcome by temptations. He has a tradition of coming to our aid! Lent is a time to reflect on the temptations we face and develop strategies for overcoming them. We are more likely to succeed if our actions have a social dimension. One temptation we all face is “busyness”. Too often our lives become so hectic that we have no time to think of others. Catholic Relief Services’ Rice Bowl program teaches prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. This Lent, consider adopting a new tradition. Visit www.crsricebowl.org to find meatless recipes from countries around the world. Then prepare these recipes as a family and take a virtual tour of life in that country. Place the money you save by eating a meatless dinner in the rice bowl. By the end of Lent you’ll be able to make a special donation to help people around the world. Congratulations to the Newly Baptized Feb. 14th & 15th Carlos Alberto Jerez Sandoval Mia Carolina Suriel Christian Angelo Torres OUTREACH HOURS Tuesday thru Friday 8:30am - 11:00am 954-905-6316 Pantry Items Canned Beans (Red, Black)/Boxed Mashed Potatoes Canned Meats (Chicken, Turkey, Tuna, Ham) Parmalat Milk /Rice Please check expiration dates We Cannot distribute expired food Your Kind Help is Appreciated!!! St. Vincent de Paul Poor Boxes Our “Poor Boxes” are located at the church exits. We need your monetary donations, the St. Vincent de Paul Society uses 100% of your donations to help the needy. Please help us, to help them. Thank you for your monetary donations!!! The Sick Adam Dietsch Adele Gerstman Adelaide Altieri Adriana Barrera Aida Rivadeneira Albert Misko Alberto Vértiz Alfred Gertz Alvaro Gutierrez Ana Castañón Ana Gloria Mirabal Ana Milena Mera Ana Ribeirinho Angela Chandley Anthony Mecca Anthony Ribeau Arlene Mandel Ashley Strum Audrey Tegenkanp Barbara Anderson Barbara Branigan Barbara Matalon Becky Dwoskin Becky Tooley Berta Martin Billy Mc Quilken Bishop Friend Blasina Antonio Bob Sotkiewicz Bobby Neitz Brenda Hufstetler Brian Thomas Green Brianna Stribling Brock Lerner Carlos Raúl Sevilla Carlos Solares Carmen Ramos Carmen Rivas Carol Ann Wakefield Carol Foster Carol Ruhl Carol Slotwinski Cassie (Child) Catalina Alvarez Catalina Cruz Catherine Benoit Cathy Bowen Cathy Carns Cher Souci Cheri Kostigen Chip Temple Chris Rizzo Christian J. Honeycutt (Child) Chris Lapi Cesilio Figueroa Clifford Lee Flannery Cortney Calcanes Cristy Girgenti Cruz Colón Dalma Piper Darlene Irwin David Natur David O’Hara David Scheuerman Denise DiCarlo Denise Walsh Dennis Lockrey Desiree Perron Diana Caraballo Diane Hughes Donald Perron Doni Judkowitz Donna McGlade Donna Silvia Dori Minnelli Dorothy Mirarchi Dorothy Pfeifer Dorothy Savage Drew Bevis Dylan Perron Eduardo Ortiz Ellen Kramer Elaine Power Eliane Sajous Eileen Kelly Eileen Wesolowski Eleanor Amico Elemer Michaelis Elizabeth Peck Elizabeth Rotondella Elizabeth Sabga Pilato Emilio Scaglione Ethan Lalinde (child) Eva Prince Felix Subervi Flora Velez Fran Mandalari Francis Savage Fred Epstein Gail Jacobson Gaudencio Mateo Geri Deloughery Gina Cabrera Glenda Lloyd Gloria Catalano Gloria Cohen Gloria Nazzaro Gloria Tobón Graciela Abreu de la Cruz Greg Ougourlian Guillermo Vértiz Halie Summer Gerstman Hilza DaSilva Hipólita Figueroa Idania Chang Ismenia Samayoa Itala Sibille Ivan Reich Jack Lockrey Jack Spitzer Jackie Cortes-Walker James Chambers James Farr James LaSorella Jane Hinkle Jay Gallagher Jim Caporossi Jim Simmons Jimmy Albrecht Joanne Nin Joe Bartezak Joe Silvia John Gervais John Greaves John McKay John Morrissey Jon Wilson Jorge Gallo, Jr. Joseph Bonfiglio Joseph Schaeffer Joshua Henriquez Joy Phillips Juan Daniel Gomez (Child) Judy Summerlin Juliana Marchini Justo Gonzalez Karen Georgina Kathleen Keyte Kathryn Seelye Katy Derner (Child) Kenny Evans Kerry Clemmensen Kerry Sylvester Kim O’Connor Krista Rowland Lagrent Verret Laura Lee Flannery Laura Rodriguez Larry K. Lawrence Castañón Leonor Robayo de Vila Ljerka Rebrovic Ligia Chang Lilian Rodriguez Linda Ribeau Lorie Roleni Lorie Skinner Lourdes Rovira Louvenia Davis Lucille Dentzer Lucy Marrone Luis Fernando Giraldo Madeline Wolner Manuel Chang Manuel Ryall Mario Bacchi Marcia Taylor Mark Lixie Mark Silverman Marguerite Lapp Marie Bettlejewski Marie Pegram Marion Broadhead Marlene Gentile Marlene Hixon Mary Crow Mary Mulder Mary Anne Becker Mary Jane Carns Matthew James (child) Maureen Bude Maurice Braunstein Mel Greene Melanie Huelett Michael Aubertin Michael Georgina Michael Keyte Michelle Canzio Mike Foster Nancy Gerner Nancy Marsh Nat Chandley Nelly Zavaleta Nicole Seiler Nina Arlook Ofelia Subervi Olivia Tyler (child) Omar Rumbos Pam Aubertin Pat Campbell Patricia Hoffman Patricia Mostecak Patricia Puglisi Patricia Scott Patrick Chase Paul Henriques Pauline Giguere Philip Branigan, Jr Piper Anne Palmieri Porfirio Vásquez Quentin H. Girgenti Raúl Ríos Raúl Vértiz Regina Hammes Richard Barthel Richard Clewell Richard Francis Ball Rick Cupo Robert Larracuente Robert Pegram Robert Sobkoski Rochelle Isaacs Ron Chicoyne Ron Gerner Rose Rizzo Roy Kassebaum Ruth Hunt Ruth Oxley Sal Anzelone Shane K. Calvello (child) Sig Kalinowski Stephen Keenan Stephen Grieve Stephanie Branigan Sue Connell Brown Susana Foster Susan Randazzo Suzette Vásquez Teresa Bellaby Teresa Bowlan Terry Proscia Thomas Nicholson Trisha Forte Veronica Pierce Vinnie Bonvino Viv Nye Walter LaPrade Zephaniah Satahoo ATTENTION Please call the Parish Office to add any Names 954-905-6317. Thanks to all parishioners who picked up or purchased their Albums! If you DID NOT, you can pick up or purchase yours at the parish office WEEKENDS ONLY. Office hours are: Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am - 3pm ¡Gracias a todos los parroquianos que recogieron o compraron sus Álbumes! Si Ud. no lo ha hecho, lo puede recoger o comprar en la oficina parroquial SOLAMENTE los FINES de SEMANA. El horario es: sábado 9am–5pm y domingo 9am - 3pm Sunday by Sunday Domingo a Domingo THE MEANING OF OUR BAPTISM EL SIGNIFICADO DE NUESTRO BAUTISMO Lent is the time of year that we devote to scrutinizing our lives in the light of our baptism into the death and resurrection of Jesus. Today’s readings are a nice shorthand catechism of what our baptized lives mean. As Noah passed through the waters of the flood to a covenant with God, so did we enter into a covenant, a promised relationship with God through our baptism. The psalm reminds us that if we truly keep the covenant, the way of life God expects us to follow will not be a burden, but a source of love and truth. Peter’s letter gives one explanation of what our baptism means: it is an appeal that we make to God for a clear conscience. How do we obtain this clear conscience? The words that Jesus proclaims immediately following his temptation show us the way: “Repent and believe in the gospel.” It might be a good spiritual exercise to keep these readings before us throughout the entire season of Lent, a means to help us return to a life lived in our baptismal promises. Cuaresma es la época del año que dedicamos a escudriñar nuestras vidas a la luz de nuestro Bautismo en la muerte y resurrección de Jesús. Las lecturas de hoy son como un catecismo abreviado de lo que nuestras vidas de bautizados significan. Tal como Noé pasó por las aguas del diluvio a una alianza con Dios, así también nosotros entramos en una alianza, una relación con Dios prometida por nuestro Bautismo. El salmo nos recuerda que si realmente vivimos la alianza, el modo de vida que Dios quiere que vivamos no va a ser una carga, sino una fuente de amor y verdad. La carta de Pedro ofrece una explicación de lo que significa nuestro bautismo: es una plegaria a Dios pidiendo una buena conciencia. ¿Cómo obtenemos esta buena conciencia? Las palabras que Jesús proclama justo después de su tentación nos señala el camino: “Arrepiéntanse y crean en el Evangelio”. Podría ser un buen ejercicio espiritual mantener estas lecturas a nuestro alcance durante todo el tiempo de Cuaresma, un medio para ayudarnos a volver a una vida vivida según nuestras promesas bautismales. Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co. READINGS FOR THE WEEK Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday: Lv 19:1-2, 11-18; Ps 19:8-10, 15; Mt 25:31-46 Is 55:10-11; Ps 34:4-7, 16-19; Mt 6:7-15 Jon 3:1-10; Ps 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19; Lk 11:29-32 Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Ps 138:1-3, 7c-8; Mt 7:7-12 Ez 18:21-28; Ps 130:1-8; Mt 5:20-26 Dt 26:16-19; Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8; Mt 5:43-48 Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Ps 116:10, 5-19; Rom 8:31b-34; Mk 9:2-10 SAINTS AND SPECIAL OBSERVANCES Sunday: Monday: Friday: First Sunday of Lent; Rite of Election; Rite of Calling the Candidates to Continuing Conversion; Rite of Sending; Washington’s Birthday St. Polycarp; Julian Calendar Lent begins Abstinence. BEAUTY IN FORGIVENESS Humanity is never so beautiful as when praying for forgiveness, or else forgiving another. — Jean P. F. Richter Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co. LECTURAS DE LA SEMANA Lunes: Lv 19:1-2, 11-18; Sal 19 (18):8-10, 15; Mt 25:31-46 Martes: Is 55:10-11; Sal 34 (33):4-7, 16-19; Mt 6:7-15 Miércoles: Jon 3:1-10; Sal 51 (50):3-4, 12-13, 18-19; Lc 11:29-32 Jueves: Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Sal 138 (137):1-3, 7c-8; Mt 7:7-12 Viernes: Ez 18:21-28; Sal 130 (129):1-8; Mt 5:20-26 Sábado: Dt 26:16-19; Sal 119 (118):1-2, 4-5, 7-8; Mt 5:43-48 Domingo: Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Sal 116 (115): 10, 15-19; Rom 8:31b-34; Mc 9:2-10 LOS SANTOS Y OTRAS CELEBRACIONES Domingo: Primer Domingo de Cuaresma; Rito de Elección; Rito de Envío; Rito de Llamado a la conversión continua; Nacimiento de George Washington Lunes: San Policarpo; Inicio de la Cuaresma en el calendario juliano Viernes: Abstinencia LA BELLEZA DEL PERDÓN La humanidad nunca es tan hermosa como cuando reza implorando perdón o cuando perdona a otro. — Jean P. F. Richter REMEMBER SAINT ANDREW PARISH IN YOUR ESTATE Why use Envelopes? The regular use of Sunday envelopes is so important!!! Whenever we do not have a record of contributions or when contributions have ceases, we have no way of knowing whether someone is still joining our community of worship or not. Unless we know someone is a practicing Catholic, delays and hard feelings can result when people want to be married, when they want their child baptized, or when they want to be a godparent or a sponsor. We go through this with people every day. It is the Church, not just this parish, which insists that signs of good faith commitment be present on these occasions. It is simple to establish and maintain a record of attendance at Mass and parish support—simply by using the envelopes that parish provides. This is also necessary in order to enroll your child in our religious education or sacramental preparation programs, and to obtain a favorable tuition rate at a Catholic school. You must be able to demonstrate that you are a practicing Catholic— that you are participating at Mass and contributing to the support of the Church. Filling out a registration form alone does not accomplish this, USING ENVELOPES ON SUNDAY DOES OR FAITH DIRECT. It also enables us to thank you and provide you with a record of your contributions for tax purposes. ¿Por qué hay que usar los Sobres? ¡El uso regular de los sobres dominicales es muy importante! Cuando no tenemos un registro de contribución o cuando las contribuciones paran, no tenemos manera de saber si usted está aún asistiendo a la parroquia o no. A menos que nosotros sepamos que la persona es católica practicante, esto atrasa y ocasiona resentimientos cuando las personas quieren casarse, bautizar a un niño/a, o quieren ser padrinos. Nosotros tenemos estás situaciones todos los días. Es la Iglesia, no sólo esta parroquia, la cual insiste en que señales de compromiso de FE sean presentes en estás ocasiones. Es sencillo establecer y mantener un registro de asistencia a Misa y de apoyo a la Parroquia, simplemente usando los sobres que la Parroquia les da. Esto es necesario también, para inscribir a su hijo en los programas de educación religiosa o en los programas de preparación para algún sacramento, y para obtener un mejor precio en la matrícula de su hijo en una Escuela Católica. Usted debe demostrar que es Católico practicante, que usted participa de las Misas y contribuye apoyando a la Iglesia. Llenar un registro no es suficiente. HAY QUE USAR LOS SOBRES LOS DOMINGOS O USAR FAITH DIRECT. Esto también nos permite agradecerles y proveerles un registro de sus contribuciones para sus impuestos. Thank you for your Prayer, Service and Generous Giving!!! Weekly Collection report for weekend of: 2/15/2015 Masses Saturday 5:30 PM Saturday 7 PM Sunday 7 AM Sunday 8 AM Sunday 9:30 AM Sunday 11:30AM Sunday 1:30 PM Sunday 5:30 PM Total People Count 646 395 153 186 621 836 650 497 3,984 Collection $3,645.00 $1,611.05 $2,205.00 $1,940.95 $3,021.00 $6,586.00 $2,232.00 $2,897.00 $24,138.00 Special accounts and collections Collection Description Amount Office envelopes $719.00 Children’s envelopes $73.00 Capital Campaign $0.00 School Financial Aid $173.00 Outreach $166.00 Youth 4 Christ Candles $0.00 $321.00 Latin America $1.00 Ash Wednesday $20.00 R.E. Children $8.00 Total special collections: $1,473.00 Total of all collections: $ 25,619.00 Please notify the Parish Office of any changes in your address or phone number. Thank you! First Sunday of Lent Primer Domingo de Cuaresma TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION TRADICIONES DE NUESTRA FE Fasting may be a priority in your Lenten springcleaning regimen. Almost every religious tradition recognizes that fasting is a key to heightened spiritual awareness. You know this from your own experience. When you are engaged in a hobby, painting a room, keeping vigil near a delivery room, or standing watch at a sickbed, you may simply forget to eat. What you are doing so fills you that the intensity of the action is itself nourishing. In fasting from food, or drink, or habitual behaviors, you make room for what is truly important. Even though Lenten Sundays stand apart from the Lenten fast, you will notice traces of fasting in our liturgy. We fast from singing the Gloria and Alleluia, we fast from flowers bedecking the altar, and there may be a noticeable drop in the number of infant baptisms as parents elect to wait until Easter. This hints that fasting is a prelude to feasting, and the vigor of our Easter alleluias is rich fare after a long silence. In the same way, even a small fast—no cream in the coffee, no pepper in the soup, no radio in the car—can not only point to deeper hungers, but help us rejoice more fully in the feast when we break our fast together. — Rev. James Field, Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co. Según un dicho árabe, si quieres conocer bien a una persona, debes convivir durante cuarenta días con ella. Cuarenta no puede tomarse al pie de la letra, ya que en las culturas semitas de siglos pasados cuarenta significaba “un largo periodo de tiempo”. Los judíos, cristianos y musulmanes provenimos de esas culturas antiguas y es por eso que para nosotros el número cuarenta es muy importante. Algunos ejemplos bíblicos: El diluvió duró cuarenta días. Moisés habló con Dios durante cuarenta días en el Sinaí. El pueblo de Israel pasó cuarenta años en el desierto purificándose de sus pecados. Jesús ayunó cuarenta días en el desierto antes de iniciar su ministerio público. El profeta Mahoma tenía cuarenta años cuando Dios lo llamó; asimismo, según el Islam, Dios creó a Adán en cuarenta días, y la persona que desea sabiduría necesita ayunar cuarenta días. No se sabe de dónde viene esta conexión del número cuarenta con la religión. Algunos astrónomos piensan que es debido al planeta Venus. Venus (estrella matutina) viaja por el cielo regresando a su lugar de origen cada cuarenta años menos cuarenta días. — Fray Gilberto Cavazos-Glz, OFM, Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co
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