From the Principal's Office
March, 2010

A couple of weeks ago we began the season of Lent. On Ash Wednesday we attended an Ash Wednesday service and were given ashes as a symbol of our mortality. This is the season the Church asks us to prepare for our Lord’s Resurrection by performing extra acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

Traditionally, Catholics “give up” some special treat, food or leisure activity as a sign to our Lord that we are united with him in suffering. These little acts of mortification strengthen the virtues of prudence, fortitude and perseverance among others. These acts also fulfill our responsibility to perform acts of fasting during Lent. However, prayer and almsgiving are also asked of us during this time of penitence.

Prayer is an ever integral part of our relationship with God. Lent gives us a wonderful opportunity to continue to pray as we always have, but to also increase our prayers and the fervency in which we pray. It is a great time to rededicate ourselves to spending more time in the presence of our Lord. This can be accomplished anywhere; at home, on the job, in school and most especially in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Please take advantage of Adoration of our Lord offered here at Our Lady of Hope Church every Thursday sometime during this season of Lent.

Almsgiving is also asked of us during Lent in a special way. We share our bounty with others less fortunate. We also should find ways in which to give of ourselves and our time to others. The elderly neighbor who may need help with chores or errands, the family that just welcomed a new baby, the friend who recently lost a loved one, and so on. There are so many opportunities available to us to give of our time, talent and treasure. In our prayer we can ask our Lord to show us ways in which He wants us to share with others.

Lent is a beautiful season that the Church gives to us to really try to become ever closer to God, our fellow neighbor and to grow in holiness. Let us embrace this season fully so that we too can share in the joy of Easter!

Mrs. Mary Beth Pittman
Principal