Giving alms has always been an important part of Lent. For many people, it means giving money to Catholic charities or some other good cause. But the concept of almsgiving goes much deeper. It is our response to the teachings of Jesus that encourage us to reach out to people in need — not just with our money, but with our time and our talents. Lent gives us the opportunity to cultivate a spirit of generosity. It gives a chance to share what we have and who we are with other people. It puts us in communion with others and helps us understand that we are all members of the Body of Christ.
(Source: Our Sunday Visitor)
1. Slow Down. Set aside 10 minutes a day for silent prayer or meditation. It will revitalize your body and your spirit.
2. Read a good book. You could choose the life of a saint, a spiritual how-to, an inspirational book or one of the pope’s new books.
3. Be Kind. Go out of your way to do something nice for someone else every day.
4. Get involved. Attend a Lenten lecture or spiritual program. It’s never too late to join our 6-week Adult Faith Sharing program at St. Anne. Call the parish for details 262-942-8300.
5. Volunteer at your parish. Whether it’s the parish fish fry, cleaning the church or helping with the food drive, it will give you a chance to help others.
6. Reach out. Invite an inactive Catholic to come with you to daily Mass or on Sundays. Click here for our schedule. https://saint-anne.org/worship/daily-mass-schedule/
7. Pray. Especially for people you don’t like and for people who don’t like you.
8. Tune out. Turn off the television and spend quality time talking with family members or friends.
9. Clean out closets. Donate gently used items to the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
10. Donate. Google “Catholic Missions”. Then pick up one mission and decide how you can help by sending money, clothing or supplies.
(Source: Our Sunday Visitor, 2/3/2008)
“The greatest of these is love,” wrote St. Paul the Apostle to us in 1 Corinthians 13. Love is truly amazing and brings joy to all, if we are open to it. The realities of its potential are boundless. And, so Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta said, “Spread love everywhere you go: First of all in your own house… let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness.”
St. Thomas Aquinas, doctor of the Church and patron saint of all Catholic universities, was and is still revered for his extensive theological writings. His inspiration is clear in the following prayer, “Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you, and a hope of finally embracing you.” St. Thomas Aquinas lived 1226-1274. His feast day is Jan. 28.