Greetings from Fr. Dave

Our theme for week 2 of Lent: Radiation Therapy for Sin. We were laughing with staff about preaching this weekend about the “s” word and the “f” word. Intrigued?

“S” is for sin; “f” is for forgiveness! And, we cannot live a fully Christian life without a profound understanding — and acceptance — of both. Focusing excessively on our sinfulness (or the sinfulness of someone else!) is as unbalanced as focusing exclusively on forgiveness.
 
This is one more of those very “Catholic” things requiring us to hold both at the same time, neglecting neither. Our relationship with Jesus is all about grace, forgiveness, mercy, and the fullness of life…….AND………it also is about the stark realization that apart from Jesus we are doomed due to our own sin, rebellion, selfishness, pride, and inability to save ourselves!
 
The radiation therapy we have for sin is a metaphor that Fulton Sheen developed with all the sacraments: the sacraments are a kind of radiation therapy for our souls. Exposing ourselves to any of the sacraments provides a conduit for God to act powerfully, healing and restoring our broken humanity. When I sit daily in front of the Blessed Sacrament, I use this image a lot: simply being there, being available, being open, is exposing myself to the divine radiation. And, He really does take action in our lives!
 
So, as we continue through Lent, I urge you to take time for prayer — including in front of the Blessed Sacrament — make use of the sacrament of Reconciliation, read the meditations in the Magnificat Companion, and reach out generously to those around you. May the grace of this season CHANGE each of us!
 

A support group for abuse survivors will begin here at the parish on Thursday, March 28 ^th. Lisa Knudson will be leading the group, which is designed to
facilitate connection, compassion, and healing. Meetings will be in the parish office conference room from 6:30-7:45pm. If you are interested in joining or have any questions, please call Lisa at 503.341.2694.

 
Our Lent Reconciliation Service is this week on Monday, March 18 ^th at 7:00pm. After a brief reflection and examination of conscience, four priests will be here to hear individual confessions and extend absolution. I invite you to make use of this wonderful “radiation therapy for sin”!

 
And, thanks to those who have brought in unused musical instruments.  We will be sending them off to St. Francis Xavier parish in the Philippines shortly.  We have received quite a variety so far.  If you still want to participate, it’s not too late.

 
We are plugging along with the Archbishop’s Catholic Appeal. Thanks for your participation. Please follow through on making your pledge if you have not already done so.
 

Funeral services for Ken Hough are scheduled for this Saturday, March 23 ^rd, at 11:00am. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, rest in peace.