During the season of Lent, you may notice some subtle changes at church. As you enter our worship space, you will notice that the water has been removed from the baptismal font and replaced with sand. This symbolic gesture reminds us of our Lenten journey where we are called to spend time in the desert, praying, fasting, and doing good works. Following his baptism, Jesus withdrew to the desert where he spent forty days alone, facing temptation, praying, and fasting.
Water is essential for all life to survive. We recall not only Jesus’ time in the desert, but also the forty years the Israelites wandered in the desert as they journeyed from slavery to the promised land. Imagine how parched the people of God must have been wandering in the sand of the desert. As their journey lead to their promised land, so too does our Lenten journey. After forty days of Lent, we celebrate the joy of the resurrection, where our hunger is satisfied, where our thirst for living water is quenched.
On the altar you will notice barren tree branches. The branches are dead and brittle. As we together sing the Kyrie (Lord have mercy) someone from the congregation will come forward to wrap a purple cloth around a branch, symbolizing how, at times, we find ourselves bound in sin, self-absorbed, or searching for the freedom that only God can offer. After our Lenten journey is concluded and we celebrate the joy of Easter, the purple ribbons will be joined by brightly colored ribbons, symbolizing our freedom and joy as a people of the resurrection.
Also, please remember to bring food and toiletries to Mass each week during Lent. As a parish community, we can fill our Lenten journey by helping feed those in need. The collected items will be left on the side of the alter until Palm Sunday. As you enter church each week, you can place items in and around the baskets, not only symbolizing our doing of good works, but also to see the fruit of our labors.
May this Lenten journey draw each one of us closer to the most loving heart of Jesus. God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forevermore.