This Sunday marks a turn in our Lenten journey; with the coming of the Fifth Sunday of Lent we now enter into the second part of this penitential season known as Passiontide. Following this Sunday, this time is marked by our use of the custom of veiling images in the Church, which not only mark a liturgical shift but also invites us to sharpen our focus. The custom comes from the Gospel reading from John which was always read on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, before the reform of the Lectionary, where Jesus hid himself from the crowds while in Jerusalem.
This Sunday’s Gospel reading from John invites us to reflect on the profound sacrifice that Jesus willingly embraced for the salvation of the human race. In this passage, Jesus speaks openly about his impending death and what it will accomplish. Some Greeks approach Philip, expressing their desire to see Jesus. This exchange points to the universality of Jesus' mission. It's not just for the Jews but for all people, regardless of their background or nationality. Jesus responds with words that echo throughout history: "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified."
What does Jesus mean by "being glorified"? It's not about worldly power or fame but about the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. Jesus compares his upcoming death to a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying, producing much fruit. In this analogy, Jesus reveals the paradox of the Christian faith: through death comes life. Jesus acknowledges the anguish he feels about his impending suffering, but he also submits to God's will. He knows that his death is not an end but a beginning—a new birth for humanity. His sacrifice will reconcile humanity with God and bring eternal life to all who believe in him.
As we continue our journey through the season of Lent, we are called to reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice in our own lives. We are invited to embrace the cross, not as a symbol of suffering alone but as a sign of hope and redemption. Just as Jesus surrendered himself to the Father's will, we are called to surrender our lives to God, trusting in his plan for us. In the midst of our own trials and tribulations, let us remember the words of Jesus: "Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be." Let us walk with the Lord, bearing our crosses with courage and humility, knowing that through our own sacrifices, we participate in the redemptive work of Christ.
Make Plans for Holy Week
As we prepare to enter Holy Week with next Sunday’s celebration of Palm Sunday, I want to invite you to prayerfully consider participating in all of the celebrations of Holy Week. The celebration of Easter (Masses at 8:00AM and 10:00AM; there will be not be a 5:00PM Mass on Easter) has a completely different feel when it is preceded by the celebrations of Holy Thursday (5:30PM) and Good Friday (5:30PM). If you have never been to the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday (8:00PM), please consider doing so. This year’s vigil will be a first for me as we have seven children from our school who will be fully initiated into the Church.
On Tuesday of Holy Week, at 6:30PM, Bishop Paprocki will celebrate the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral where the Holy Oils will be blessed and consecrated for the year and when the priests of the diocese will renew their priestly commitment. This is another beautiful Mass that I invite you to consider attending.
Weekday Mass will be at 7:00AM on Monday thru Wednesday; there are no morning Masses on Holy Thursday or Good Friday. Confessions will be heard at their normal times on Monday thru Wednesday. Confessions will also be heard on Good Friday from 4:00PM to 5:00PM.
Finally, the Wednesday evening Stations of the Cross during Holy Week will be “living Stations” offered by our grade school students. The Stations that evening will be at 6:00PM. All are welcome!
Blessings to you and yours for the week ahead!
Father Chris House