March 4, 2018

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. Mary’s of the Lake:

The 3 traditional Lenten disciplines are: PRAYING, FASTING & ALMSGIVING. In this Pastoral Note, I’d like to draw your attention to FASTING. Spiritually speaking, Fasting as a way to show that we can control our life, our flesh and our desire –and not to let our flesh & selfishness control us! Also, when we fast we naturally feel hungry. When we feel some hunger we may think of those in the world who actually have to go hungry extensively.
We are called to reach out to them. At the same time, when we feel hungry, we are reminded to turn to God, who can truly fill all our hunger and thirst... (Don’t forget the LENTEN FASTING & ABSTAINING REGULATION).

I’d like to share with you Pope Francis’ insight on Fasting: ‘Pope Francis on Feb 16, 2018, called on the faithful to avoid “FAKE FASTING” during Lent, according to a report in Vatican News.
His remarks came in his morning homily during mass at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. “A true Christian must be consistent, not putting himself on show, never despising others or engaging in quarrels or disagreements,” the Pope said. He explained that the faithful should avoid behavior that is inconsistent with the spirit of Lent.
Referencing the First Reading of the day from chapter 58 of Isaiah, that discusses the correct manner of fasting, Francis warned against the temptation of “showing off” by fasting: “by making a fuss of it and letting people know that we are practicing Catholics and we do penance, so that people think what a good person.” He said this sort of behavior is a trick --pretending to be virtuous. He encouraged all to fast, but to smile while fasting. And he recommended at least a partial fast for those who can’t commit to a total fast even “if you cannot commit to a total fast, the kind that makes you feels hunger in your bones” you can still fast humbly and consistently.

He continued by inviting the faithful to fast because it can help others. Fasting involves lowering oneself by reflecting on one’s sins and asking forgiveness from the Lord, he noted. And consistency in fasting also means acting as a Christian in other areas of life. “Does my fast help others?” the Pope asked. If not, “it’s inconsistent and it takes you on the path to a double life, pretending to be a just Christian – like the Pharisees or the Sadducees...’ (Taken from the on-line ZENIT –The World seen from Rome)

 RECONCILIATION: Don’t you think one real SPIRITUAL FASTING is giving up sins.
For centuries the church has considered Reconciliation (confession) an essential part of Lent.
Plan to avail yourselves for one of the 2 PARISH LENTEN PENANCE SERVICES: Thursday March 8 at 6 pm in Lakewood & Tuesday March 13 at 4:30 pm in Wabeno.

Fr. Philip