As you know, I always have more than a few announcements to make at Mass.  I consider it a blessing to have such an active parish with so many activities going on, that it takes awhile to mention them and encourage participation in some, or all, of them.  This happens especially during the Lenten Season.  One thing I haven't mentioned at Mass yet, is the importance of taking advantage of Lent to begin some new "healthy" habits that hopefully will continue even after Lent is over.  One of these is bringing food to help feed the hungry in our area through the Jackson House.  Many are already in that habit, and to them I say, "Thank You".  I keep hearing from people who are working at the Jackson House as they see the food coming from our parish each week, (thanks to the efforts of some of our Men's Club members who deliver the food).  I ask and encourage those who are not bringing non-perishable food items to do so, at least during Lent. Almsgiving is one of the calls of Scripture and the Church during this sacred season.  Even bringing one item and putting in one of the bins outside church will help.  God bless you for all your efforts to respond to God's grace and grow as the Lord wants you to grow.