Sunday, March 8, 2009
Second Sunday of Lent
THE OBEDIENCE OF ABRAHAM AND JESUS
God tested Abraham by asking not for an ordinary sacrifice, which would have been a partial burning with the meat divided between God and the people and eaten by those who sacrificed, but for a holocaust, a total burning of the sacrificial animal. This type of sacrifice consecrated the entire offering to God alone. This is what God was asking of Abraham in offering his only son, Isaac. When Abraham demonstrated his obedience, that was enough. This story from today's scriptures foretells the completion of the blood sacrifices of the old covenant in the new covenant: the blood of God's own Son, offered to us on the cross and in the Eucharist. Abraham's obedience foreshadows the obedience of Jesus to God's promise of salvation. The obedience of Abraham is rewarded in the birth to him, through Isaac, of many nations. The obedience of Jesus is rewarded in the salvation of all people for all time. (c) Copyright, J. S. Paluch Co.
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday: Daniel 9:4b-10; Lk 6:36-38
Tuesday: Isaiah 1:10, 16-20; Mt 23:1-12
Wednesday: Jeremiah 18:18-20; Mt 20:17-28
Thursday: Jeremiah 17:5-10; Lk 16:19-31
Friday: Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a; 17b-28a; Mt 21:33-43, 45-46
Saturday: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20; Lk 15:1-3, 11-32
OPPORTUNTIES FOR PRAYER AND ALMSGIVING
What are you doing to spiritually “renew your mind and heart” this Lent?
Faith Sharing Groups
It is not too late to join a Faith Sharing. Come to the one of your choice. Call the facilitator for their address.
Mondays -7pm Adrea Delaney (708) 333-5844 In South Holland, IL
Mondays -7pm Anita Herron (Bible Study) in Ministry Center
Thursday - 7pm Anthony Roan (773) 671-6710 in Blue Island
On-Line Lenten Resources
www.archchicago.org – Lenten Reflections by Cardinal George beginning in April
www.livingwithchrist.us – Weekly Reflections; Faith Journey Resources
Operation Rice Bowl & Holy Innocent Victims
Remember -- Loose change in the Rice Bowl and pennies in the “Little Person” Jar.
Rice Bowl monies go to help feed the hungry in the U.S. and other countries.
Holy Innocent Victims money goes to special program that deal with HIV/AIDS.
Holy Name Of Mary Photo Album
Photographs for the album will be taken on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 16, 17 and 18th. See Rashaad Logan, Lester Smith or Kermit Taylor after Mass to make your appointment.
February Birthdays
David Fleming
Kenneth Smith
Ayds Sims
Lorenza Lewis (In Memoriam)
Charlene Smith
Mary Anne Martin
Karen Rogers
Effie Johnson
Mary Alice Martin
Marsha Virgil
Maryann George
William Beavers
Margaret Haugabrook
Ashley Williams
Summer Job Opportunity
The Chicago Freedom School is looking for people, 18-23, to help in their Freedom Fellowship Summer Leadership Institute. The pay is $2,000. See their website www.chicagofreedomschool.com for more information. The application deadline is March 9th.
Tithes and Offerings Report for 3-1-09
Tithes and Offerings $3,935.00
Oblate Sisters of Providence $ 191.00
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
The grace of God is overflowing.
Is your heart open to receive it?