Last week’s continuing education conference for the priests of the diocese offered a presentation on the implementation of the new English translation of the Roman Missal which will take effect on the First Sunday of Advent this year.  We were encouraged to see this as a wonderful opportunity for priests, deacons and laity to grow in appreciation of the richness of our liturgical celebrations, especially the Mass.  It helps us to look broadly at the liturgical reforms of Vatican II, and see this new translation as one phase of an ongoing renewal which seeks always to be faithful to the richness of our tradition of giving worship and praise to God.  Finally, it presents us with a variety of helps to use in the parish to prepare us properly for this new translation.  I am excited about the results of this long-term effort by the Church to enhance our liturgical experiences of connecting with God as a community of believers at Mass.  Stayed tuned for what we will do to get ready here at Sacred Heart Church.

Our Lenten Reconciliation Service will take place this Thursday, April 14, at 6:30 p.m. exactly one week before we begin the celebration of the Easter Triduum.  One of the prefaces of Mass during Lent says that God gives us this great season of grace "to purify our hearts."  Whether you regularly receive the sacrament or not, this opportunity to gather as a community to recognize and celebrate our merciful God, and examine our own lives in light of the Gospel, can lead to many blessings, including a purified heart that is truly ready to celebrate the great paschal mystery of Christ's passion, death and resurrection.  Please join us and welcome our visiting priests who will be instruments of reconciliation for us who come with humble and contrite hearts.