March 22-23, 2014
The Third Sunday of Lent features the first of three Scrutinies of the elect who are journeying towards the Easter Vigil. The scrutiny is, as the word suggests, a close look at the spiritual readiness of the persons preparing for the Easter Sacrament. The gospel of these three consecutive Sundays of Lent (3rd, 4th and 5th) will set the theme for the scrutinies. This weekend, the Samaritan woman at the well, comes to understand Jesus as the source of living waters.
Accompanying each of the three scrutinies is a prayer of exorcism. The following quotations may help you understand the meaning of these rituals: “For the scrutinies are celebrated in order to deliver the elect from the power of sin and Satan, to protect them against temptation, and to give them strength in Christ.” And, "At its core, the scrutinies are not about the sinfulness of the elect but about the overwhelming grace of God in Christ. The exorcisms are not fear-laden bouts with Satan but are grace-filled encounters with the healing power of the Spirit."
Looking ahead: On March 25, a memorial mass for former parishioner Donna Shurkey will be held at our 12:00pm weekday mass. Donna was very involved in the parish for many years. We invite her friends to join with us in remembering her.