Dear Friends in Christ, It is hard to believe we are beginning the Third Week of Lent. Yet, this holy time of year passes quickly and soon Holy Week and Easter will be upon us. Several weeks ago, two young women in our parish community received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Paul’s Cathedral with Bishop McManus. As adults, they responded to God’s call in their hearts, inviting them to complete their Christian initiation. My participation in this Confirmation Mass was uplifting and encouraging as the women were joined by other adults throughout our diocese receiving the sacrament at the same time. Do you or someone in your family need Baptism, First Eucharist or Confirmation? Are you interested in becoming Catholic? Currently, several others in our community are beginning the process of R.C.I.A. which will prepare them to receive the Sacraments of Christian Initiation and make them members of the Church. Now is a good time to consider joining the small group that is forming and inquire about completing Christian initiation or becoming Catholic. Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life, for, when we are Baptized, we become members of the Church, become God’s adopted children and are washed clean of original and personal sin. Baptism also gives the promise of eternal life. When St. Paul speaks about Baptism in Holy Scripture he makes it clear that when we are Baptized we share in Christ’s death so that we may later share in His Resurrection. During Lent, we also consider the importance of Baptism as giving us grace and salvation. We look forward to hearing from you about the needs of you and your family for the Sacraments. It is our joy to provide preparation, instruction and faith-formation to all who are interested. Let us pray for each other and our parish family as we continue to journey through Lent towards Easter.