“Seeds of Faith, Branches of Hope”

The written history of the past 150 years of the Archdiocese of Newark, have been distributed to each Parish throughout the Newark Archdiocese and is available (for sale) to all parishioners.  These books can be purchased from the rectory.  If you wish to order one (or more) to be put aside, there are order forms found in this week’s bulletin or in the church vestibule.

A copy of this beautifully designed book is on display in the church vestibule. 

Description:

8 1/4” x 11 3/4” Hard Cover 

192 Glossy Pages; Full Color Throughout

MONDAY   Dn 9:4b-10 Ps 79:8-9,11,13   Lk 6:36-38

TUES.  Is 1:10,16-20 Ps 50:8-9,16bc-17,21,23 Mt 23:1-12

WED.  Jer 18:18-20 Ps 31:5-6,14-16       Mt 20:17-28

THURS.  Jer 17:5-10 Ps 1:1-4,6 Lk 16:19-31

FRIDAY  Gn 37:3-4,12-13a,17b-28          Ps 105:16-21 Mt 21:33-43,45-46

SATURDAY   Mi 7:14-15,18-20 Ps 103:1-4,9-12 Lk 15:1-3,11-32

First Sunday of Lent

 CARING for CREATION CORNER

  We have entered a most solemn season of the Liturgical Year.  Our Lenten practices are meant to lead to a conversion of heart that is expressed in the way we live in relationship to God, others and all of creation. 

  The New Jersey Catholic Coalition for Environmental Justice (NJCCEJ) invites parishes and individuals to consider how our Lenten practices can engage us in some of the ecological crises of our times.  For the next four weeks the bulletin will contain brief articles on a particular subject:  consumerism, water, food and energy.  These articles are guides to help us determine whether how we live is consistent with our Catholic values and whether our lifestyle might need a few adjustments.  

Reflection Question

  For two decades the Church has taught that the ecological crisis is a moral issue.  How is my/our parish's use or misuse of material goods, water, food and energy an expression of our response to the ecological crisis?

Prayer:  God of all creation, we pray that as we journey through the Lenten season, we may have a renewed vision of your presence in the world.  May this new vision lead to a more harmonious way of living with all creation.  Amen.

 Second Sunday of Lent  - - Consumer Choices

 CARING for CREATION CORNER

Our Church Teaches

   If God clothes in such splendor the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown on the fire tomorrow, how much more will God provide for you, O weak in faith!  Luke 12:28

  It is unjust that a privileged few should continue to accumulate excessive goods, squandering available resources, while masses of people are living in conditions of misery. . .Simplicity, moderation and discipline, as well as a spirit of sacrifice, must become a part of everyday life, lest all suffer the negative consequences of the careless habits of a few.  THE ECOLOGICAL CRISIS:  A COMMON RESPONSIBILITY, Pope John Paul II, 1990

Facts for Thought

•  The U.S. has 5% of the world's population but consumes 25-30% of the world's resources.

•  Each American throws away approximately 1400 lbs of garbage per year.

Reflection Questions

- When I shop, how often do I ask myself before purchasing an item, “Do I need this, or do I simply want it?”

- Would I consider downsizing holidays and birthdays, i.e., agreeing with family members to find alternative ways to observe the holiday or celebration?  For example, make a charitable contribution or give the gift of time by assisting with house projects such as painting or gardening.