As always, we begin the first full week of Lent with the telling of the story of Jesus in the desert, dealing with powerful temptations. Perhaps it is to give us comfort in the reality that temptations are part of this life because we are allowed choices. While Jesus overcame those temptations and was ministered to by the angels, so we strive to overcome temptations by & through the ministry of Jesus to us, in Word and Sacrament and Church – that is, the community of faith. In trying to live a moral, faithful life, we trust in the guiding Spirit, dwelling in us (as we heard last Sunday) and alive in the Church. It is that guidance that helps us make the right choices. The story we hear today of the wrong choice in the Garden, reminds us how we can sway one another, for good or for bad.
We are given this holy season to help us grow in faith, individually and for one another. Lent is that time of sacrifice, giving, prayer and penance with a goal toward real, permanent change in our lives, for the life of the world. As the preface to our Eucharistic Prayer for Reconciliation notes, “You set before your people a time of grace and reconciliation, and, as they turn back to You in spirit, you grant them hope in Christ Jesus and a desire to be of service to all, while they entrust themselves more fully to the Holy Spirit.” May this be a time of growth in this way for us all!
This weekend we celebrate the Rite of Sending for our Catechumens and Candidates who are journeying through the process of RCIA to the sacraments of initiation and full communion with the Catholic Church. This will be celebrated at the 11:30 AM Mass on Sunday and immediately precedes the Rite of Election which will be celebrated by Bishop Calvo at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church at 2:00 PM. The Rite of Sending “sends” our catechumens and candidates, and their sponsors, to offi-cially meet Bishop Calvo, along with all those catechumens and candidates from parishes around the diocese. At the Rite of Election, the catechumens become the “elect”, those chosen for baptism, and the candidates (those already baptized) are specially recognized and accepted to be received in full, sacramental communion. These rituals begin the final preparation process before Easter, known as the Period of Enlightenment. At the Easter Vigil we will celebrate all these women and men into the Church. Please remember to pray for the elect and candidates during the holy season of Lent. We also pray for them as a parish community, most especially in the ritual of the Scrutinies on the third, fourth and fifth Sundays of Lent.
This weekend I am assisting in the Engaged Encounter, the weekend retreat for all couples pre-paring to marry in the Church. This is an excellent weekend led by married couples to help engaged couples consider and discuss with one another the joys and challenges and commitments of mar-riage. It is an opportunity to share in their formation for the Sacrament of Matrimony and a required part of marriage preparation. Occasionally we even will have a couple from a non-Catholic, Christian church join us because most other Christian denominations do not have a formal preparation week-end like this. The goal is to help couples be as prepared as they possibly can be when entering into this beautiful, life-long relationship. It is also an opportunity to teach about our faith to those non-Catholics who are marrying a Catholic. We include instruction on the sacraments and celebrate a teaching Mass. Please say a prayer for those on the retreat weekend, both the engaged couples and those of us presenting. BLESSINGS TO YOU ALL THIS FIRST WEEK OF LENT!
FROM FATHER CHUCK
DEL PADRE CHUCK Como siempre, comenzamos la primera semana de la Cuaresma con la narración de Jesús en el
desierto, lidiando con poderosas tentaciones. Tal vez sea para darnos consuelo en la realidad de que las tentaciones son parte de esta vida porque se nos permite elegir. Mientras Jesús venció esas tenta-ciones y fue ministrado por los ángeles, así nos esforzamos por vencer las tentaciones por y a través del ministerio de Jesús para nosotros, en Palabra y Sacramento e Iglesia—es decir, como comunidad de fe. Al tratar de vivir una vida moral y fiel, confiamos en la dirección del Espíritu santo, morando en nosotros (como escuchamos en las lecturas el Domingo pasado) y vivo en la Iglesia. Es esa guía la que nos ayuda a tomar las decisiones correctas. La historia que escuchamos hoy sobre la elección equivo-cada en el Jardín nos recuerda cómo podemos influenciarnos unos a otros, para bien o para mal.
Se nos da este tiempo santo para ayudarnos a crecer en la fe, tanto individualmente como para ayu-dar al prójimo. La Cuaresma es un tiempo de sacrificio, entrega, oración y penitencia con una meta ha-cia un cambio real y permanente en nuestra vida, para la vida del mundo. Así como señala el prefacio de nuestra oración Eucarística de la Reconciliación: "Haz ante nuestro pueblo un tiempo de gracia y re-conciliación, y, al volver a Ti en espíritu, concédeles esperanza en Cristo Jesús y un deseo de servir a todos, mientras confían más plenamente al Espíritu Santo." ¡Que este sea un tiempo de crecimiento de esta manera para todos nosotros!
Este fin de semana celebramos el Rito de Enviar de nuestros Catecúmenos y Candidatos que están en el programa de RCIA para recibir los sacramentos de iniciación y plena comunión con la Iglesia Cató-lica. Este rito se celebrará este Domingo en la misa de las 11:30 AM y continuará enseguida al Rito de Elección que será celebrado por el Obispo Calvo en la Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima a las 2:00 PM. El Rito de Enviar "envía" a nuestros catecúmenos, candidatos y a sus patrocinadores, a reunirse oficial-mente con el Señor Obispo, junto con todos aquellos catecúmenos y candidatos de todas las parroquias de la diócesis. En el Rito de la Elección, los catecúmenos se convierten en los "elegidos", los elegidos para el bautismo, y los candidatos (los ya bautizados) son reconocidos y aceptados para ser recibidos en plena comunión sacramental. Estos rituales comienzan el proceso de preparación final, antes de la Pascua, conocido como el Período de la Iluminación. En la Vigilia Pascual celebraremos a todas estas mujeres y hombres en la Iglesia. Por favor, oren por los elegidos y los candidatos durante esta tempora-da santa de la cuaresma. También oramos por ellos como comunidad parroquial, especialmente en el ritual de los Escrutinios el tercer, cuarto y quinto domingo de cuaresma.
Este fin de semana estaré ayudando en el Encuentro Prematrimonial, un retiro de fin de semana diri-gido por parejas ya casadas, para las parejas que se preparan para casarse en la Iglesia. Este es un excelente fin de semana que ayuda a las parejas comprometidas a considerar y discutir entre sí las ale-grías, los desafíos y compromisos del matrimonio. Es una oportunidad para compartir su formación pa-ra el Sacramento del Matrimonio y además, una parte requerida de la preparación matrimonial. De vez en cuando tenemos una pareja cristiana, no católica, que se une a nosotros porque la mayoría de las otras denominaciones cristianas no tienen una preparación formal como esta. El objetivo es ayudar a las parejas a estar tan preparadas como sea posible para entrar en esta hermosa relación de por vida. También es una oportunidad para enseñar acerca de nuestra fe a aquellos no católicos que se están casando con un católico. Incluimos instrucción sobre los sacramentos y celebramos una Misa de ense-ñanza de catequesis. Por favor, ore para los todos los participantes en el fin de semana de retiro, tanto las parejas comprometidas y los presentadores. ¡BENDICIONES A TODOS ESTA PRIMERA SEMANA DE CUARESMA!
COLLECTION TO BENEFIT CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES On March 14/15 the Diocese of Reno will take up the Catholic Relief Services Collection. This im-portant collection provides humanitarian aid for the poor who are generally more affected by disasters as they do not have the safety nets to rely upon in times of crisis. Today, all around the world, programs supported by the Catholic Relief Services Collection are giving hope and making a difference in the lives of millions of people. These programs help:
• Eliminate food crises and improving economies in impoverished countries, • Provide health care and clean water to communities, • Give immigrants and refugees a fair chance in the legal system, and • Advocate on behalf of those without a voice.
The Catholic Relief Services Collection helps to fund Catholic programs that make a tangible dif-ference in real lives, improving the quality of life and celebrating human dignity. These successes are possible through the generosity you give through this Collection. Your compassion helps bring lifesav-ing and community aid to the world’s most poor, vulnerable and suffering people.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Randolph R. Calvo, Bishop of Reno
WOMEN OF SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS NEWS Next Business Meeting: Thursday, March 12th from 6:30—7:00 PM. A presentation by the Alzheimer's Association will follow the meeting. Do you know the difference between Alzheimer and Dementia? All are invited to attend this educational presentation about Alzheimer's. Learn about risk factors and stages, the impact of Alzheimer & the resources available. Refreshments will be served. Presentation is open to everyone.
WOMEN OF SAINT THOMAS CIRCLES—Get more involved in your parish & join a circle! Have a great idea for a new circle? We would love to support you! Email us at [email protected].
Nursing Home Circle–visits with residents at Brookdale Residence every other Thursday. Sewing Circle–The 4th Thursday of the month at 5:30 PM in Righini Hall. Bring a sewing machine if you have one, all other supplies will be provided.
F S , F 29 8:30-10:30 AM Religious Education Classes 3:00-4:30 PM Confessions
M
M , M 2 1:00 PM Marian Movement for Priests Rosary 6:30 PM RCIA classes in RH 7:00 PM Spanish Bible Study in RH
T , M 3 5:15—7:00 PM Religious Education Classes 5:30—6:30 PM Youth Choir Practice
W , M 4 6:30 PM Grupo de Oración Carismático
T , M 5 1:00-6:30 PM Adoration concluding w/Benediction 3:00 PM Divine Chaplet of Mercy 5:30-6:30 PM Confessions 7:00-9:00 PM Adult Choir Practice
Friday, M 6 6:00 PM Stations of the Cross 6:30 PM Lenten Soup Parish Potluck
S , M 7, 8:30-10:30 AM Religious Education Classes 3:00-4:30 PM Confessions
S , M 1 Blood Pressure Check and Coffee & Donuts in Righini Hall After Morning Masses
M I Saturday, February 29
8:00 AM 5:00 PM
Bruce Small Bruce Small
Sunday, March 1—First Sunday of Lent
7:30 AM 9:30 AM 11:30 AM 4:15 PM 6:00 PM
† Sofia Diotavelli For the youth of the Parish Doug Buschine People of Saint Thomas Cathedral Mendoza Mendoza Family Members
Living Stations of the Cross Presented by University Catholic Community Our Lady of Wisdom Newman Center All Presentations are on Friday at 7:00 PM
March 6th— St. Robert Bellarmine – Fernley March 27th — St. Francis of Assisi – Incline Village April 3rd— St. Gall – Gardnerville April 10th— St. Therese of the Li le Flower - Reno
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT OUR LADY OF WISDOM PARISH (775) 322-4336 OR VISIT: OLWNRENO.COM.
WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND Prepare for Easter in a special way this year. Enjoy life with a new closeness to each other and God. Upcoming Weekends: March 20-22 in Reno & April 24-26 in Sacramento. To apply visit: www.sacramentowwme.org or contact Terry & Janet at [email protected] or 916-489-3464.
COLLECTION DRIVE FOR THOSE IN NEED The WSTA are collecting new socks & underwear for men, women & children. Collection bins are available in the vestibules. All items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Clothing Closet on 4th & Record Streets. Thank you so much!
RIGHT TO LIFE ROSARY SATURDAY, March 7th at 9:00 AM at the West End Women’s Center, 5915 Tyrone Road, Reno. Invite your family & friends to pray for an end of abortion, the healing of those who have had an abortion and the change of mind of those committing these acts against the unborn.
FRIENDS FOR LIFE DINNER & SILENT AUCTION Thursday, March 12, at 5:30 PM—Reno Downtown Ballroom. Join us to Honor Casa de Vida’s President, Brigid Pierce. Keynote speaker—Melissa Coles, birthmother in the documentary “I Lived on Parker Avenue.” To purchase tickets/tables visit www.nevadarighttolife.org. For more information call Kathleen Rossi, 775-815-2099.
PROJECT RACHEL—A POST-ABORTION HEALING MINISTRY We pray for all marriages that have been negatively impacted by the scars of an abortion. May these couples reach out for help so they can experience the willingness of God to walk with them through this challenging time, His immeasurable love, and His mercy. To find out more visit: www.renodiocese.org, click on Our Works, scroll down to Project Rachel. Contact our confiden-tial, nonjudgmental help line 775-324-4325 or email [email protected] for any of these resources.
DIOCESAN YOUTH RALLY SATURDAY MARCH 7TH A DAY TO CELEBRATE OUR CATHOLIC FAITH AT BISHOP MANOGUE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
This year is exciting as we will be having approximately 600+ teens attending this event. Every year, we distribute Blessing Bags to every teen in attendance, hence we’re seeking the following donations: socks, small lotion, comb, gloves, chap sticks, band-aids, small Kleenex packs, individual shampoo-conditioner, deck of playing cards, pens & notepads, coloring books & small boxes of crayons. The goal is to make approximately 1,000 bags, which means a lot of items need to be collected. If you are able to help, please bring your donation items to the Parish Office clearly marked Youth Rally. Questions? Please contact Rocio in the Parish Office.
PRESENTS: LEPRECHAUNS & LIBATIONS March 14th|5:00 PM at the Renaissance Hotel Bundox & Bocce in Reno. A Family Friendly Event/Dinner to benefit Catholic Chari es & its various poverty assistance programs. Dinner will include Corned Beef & Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, dessert, cra beer & sodas. Please RSVP by calling 775-322-7073, ext. 220 or visit CCSNN.org. Tickets: $65/adult $20 kids 12 & under.
THE LITTLE THRIFT SHOP The L.T.S. is closing its doors & liquida ng its merchandise.
Receive 35% . Visit us at 94 E. Glendale in Sparks. Business hours: Tuesday—Friday: 11:00 AM—5:00 PM & Saturday 10:00 AM—5:00 PM.
For more informa on contact Stephanie at 775-240-2858 or ED 775-240-0328.
MEMORIAL PLAQUE ORDER FORM
PLEASE PRINT F N : ________________________ M N : ________________________
L N : ________________________
YEAR B : ________________________
YEAR P : ________________________
COST $100
R P O . P : S T A C .
MEMORIAL WALL IN OUR ST FRANCIS GARDEN TO REMEMBER OUR DEPARTED PARISHIONERS
LET US PRAY FOR… / OREMOS POR… US Servicemen & Women, Roy Avery, Tillie Pugliesi, Dory Ritzlin, Mindy Fisher,
Sophia Rae, Mario Saucedo, José E. Almaguer, Celia Guillen, Douglas Todd, Marty Ocava, Evelyn Andrade, Ed Kolesar, Joe Garcia, Fr Chris,
Caridad Rafa, John Dearborn, Gary Blount, Peter & Pa Beer, Manuel Estevez, Richard & Sally Ramm, Heather Miller, Jose Hernandez, Barbara Mok, Pa y Tellez,
Katrina Strauss, Jovita Mendoza, Patrick Coyne, Douglas Dolbow, Rafael & Sayra Gu errez, Ed, Maria & Rick Slaughter, Charlie & Linda Gill, Kriss, Zenaida & Kevin Janoski, Kristen Monibi, John & Vangie Elordieta,
S M Vigil-Saturday 5:00PM Sunday 7:30, 9:30, 11:30AM, 4:15PM & 6:00PM (Misa en español) W M 12:10PM (Monday); 7:00AM (Friday) 8:00AM (Saturday) 7:00AM & 12:10 (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday) R 11:35AM (Tuesday through Thursday) C Thursday 5:30-6:30 PM; Saturday 3:00-4:30PM or by appointment M Contact Parish Office at least six months prior to se ng date B Contact Parish Office at least two months prior to se ng date A Contact Parish Office A B Thursday 1:00-6:30PM D M Thursday 3:00PM M M P Monday 1:00PM L T S 775-240-0328 — [email protected] 94 E Glendale, Sparks, next to Juicy’s at S. McCarran Blvd Open: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 11:00-5:00PM & Saturday 10:00-5:00PM
P R P -A H M . WWW.HOPEAFTERABORTION.ORG. HELP LINE, NONJUDGMENTAL & CONFIDENTIAL: 775-324-4325.
FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP Date 1st Collection 2nd Collection 2nd Collection To Benefit
February 23 February 26 March 1 March 8 March 15 March 22 March 29
$6,744 $ $ $ $ $ $
- - $ - $ - $
No 2nd Collection Church in Central & Eastern Europe Payment to Loan No 2nd Collection Correction S.B. Catholic Relief Services No 2nd Collection Easter Flowers
