Ash Wednesday, March 1, 2017 is the official start of Lent.  According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the theme for Lent in 2017 is “Give Up, Take Up, Lift Up!”

They continue…”During Lent, take inspiration from the words of Saint Paul (2 Cor 8:9) and contemplate his invitation to live a life of evangelical poverty.  Embrace the Lord’s call to being the blessed poor by “giving up” material things, including food, superfluous to your basic needs; “taking up” charitable habits directed to helping and caring for others; and “lifting up” those in need through giving alms, through praying for them, and by participating in devotional practices.”

Ashes will be distributed during the 8:00 AM Mass, 12:05 PM Mass and the 7:30 PM Mass at Mother of Divine Providence Church.

Please remember to check last week’s bulletin (available here online) and keep the Lenten calendar handy in your home so that you and your family may participate in as many Lenten events as possible.     Let’s be sure to make this a very good Lent!