| Triduum: The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are: Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion, Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord Participation: Why is it important to attend the Triduum? It’s our response to what Jesus did for us yesterday, today, and forever! He’s worth responding to. Good Friday: Thank you in advance for contributing to the Christians in the Holy Land beset by war during the Pontifical Good Friday Collection. Conversions: Throughout the country, and some areas in the world, there is a great number of people, especially young adults, joining the Catholic Church. Based on articles I’ve read, many young adults said that it’s because they have been searching for the truth and found it. Easter: The word “Easter” comes from Old English, meaning simply the “East.” The sun which rises in the East, brings light, warmth, and hope as a symbol for the Christian of the rising Christ, who is the true light of the world. The Paschal candle used during the Easter Vigil is a central symbol of this divine light, which is Christ. This candle is kept near the ambo throughout the Easter season. New Deacon: On April 11, Kyle Pfeifer will be ordained as a transitional deacon at 10 am in the Cathedral. Anyone can attend. All are welcome. Cor Jesu (Heart of Jesus): Speaking of clergy, we welcome the Cor Jesu Apostolate to our diocese. The group consists of three priests, one transitional deacon, one brother and two seminarians. Their charism is spiritual direction and leading retreats. They will be stationed in Manhattan. PLCs: Marita Campbell and Daylene Tracy have been the parish life coordinators at the parishes in Chapman and Solomon, respectively, for decades. What a blessing they have been for their parishes. They are both retiring at the end of June. We thank them for their admirable service! Together: On April 18, we are hosting a Together in Holiness Marriage retreat at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays beginning at 9 am and ending with Mass at 4 pm. Please find more information here if you desire to attend. Funeral: At a recent priests’ council meeting, several priests shared a common concern. They often know parishioners who have faithfully attended Mass every week, yet when those individuals die, their children—who may no longer practice the faith—sometimes choose not to have a funeral Mass for them. For this reason, we strongly encourage everyone to put their wishes in writing and clearly state that they want a funeral Mass when they die. What is the meaning of the funeral Mass? A Catholic funeral is an act of worship, not simply a memorial service. The Church gathers to pray for the soul of the deceased, to proclaim the hope of the Resurrection, and to offer comfort and hope to those who mourn. As one priest also noted, the Catholic funeral rite brings peace and a sense of closure to the family. Confirmation: The Easter season also means Confirmation season. Please pray for those getting confirmed that their hearts may be opened to receive the Holy Spirit.Blessings to you and your family during this Holy Week and Happy Easter!May April bring gentle showers to our land! Bishop Vincke |
| Inspiration from the Saints:“The patient and humble endurance of the cross – whatever nature it may be – is the highest work we have to do.”~St. Katherine Drexel “We always find that those who walked closest to Christ were those who had to bear the greatest trials.”~St. Teresa of Avila “The resurrection is the greatest miracle of Christianity, and everything depends on it.”~Saint Paul VI |