St. Boniface Catholic Church
by Sue Beams

On the Fourth Sunday of Lent, one of the most beautiful stories ever told by Jesus Christ was revealed in the Holy Gospel. The parable of the Prodigal son is a prime example of God the Father's loving and compassionate way. He is quick to forgive our shortcomings. God the Father reaches out with love and embraces us. The idea of `home' makes each of us feel safe, secure, and to some extent, free. Without a home we can feel lost, frightened and alone. As Father James said in his homily, this parable allows us to see all three sides of the story. The loving, forgiving Father, the unforgiving, uncharitable older son, and the reckless, repentant younger son. Which are you? We must in our self awareness, turn to God the Father, open our heart to the gifts of God, recognize that we are far from home (God) and come back!

A class will be held on Thursday, March 22 at 6:30 for all current and new Extraordinary Ministers, Lectors, and Ushers. There is a great need for additional people to serve in these ministries.

As the Lenten season continues, we at St. Boniface have a full schedule of devotions and events. On Fridays during Lent, Mass will be offered at 6:30 with Stations of the Cross following Mass. There will be a Reconciliation service on March 30 in preparation for Easter. Stations of the Cross will begin at 5:30 followed by Mass at 6:00 and the Reconciliation service to begin at 6:30. Please check your bulletin, or call the office for additional information.

The fundraising committee has planned a Fish Fry on March 23, following the 6:30 Mass and Stations of the Cross. Cost will be $5/adults and $2.50/children. Please make plans to attend.

On March 30, there will be an opportunity to have a health screening for vascular and/or abdominal abnormalities. On March 24 and 25 there will be personnel explaining the non-evasive procedures and cost.

It is with a very heavy heart that I share the following news with you. Our beloved Father James has been re-assigned by the Bishop to the Diocese of Corpus Christi. Fr. James made the announcement to the congregation at Sunday Mass. Father James will leave for his home in India for a visit in mid-April and upon his return will report to Corpus Christi.

Father assures us he will be close and will visit with us again. He has also said there will be no need to change anything in the parish, the council, committees, etc., will continue as established until the new priest arrives (who, of course, may want to do things a little differently!) While no replacement priest has been officially named, Father feels certain we will know prior to May 1st. Our thoughts and prayers are with Fr. James as he begins another chapter of his service to God. I, for one, will miss him very much. He has been an inspiration spiritually, a comforter emotionally, and a friend. I feel sure that parishioners of St. Boniface can continue to grow individually as well as a community, by pulling together and working in harmony for the love and glory of God!

Congratulations and best wishes to all who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. We pray for those who are sick and suffering, may they find comfort. Remember the faithful departed, may they rest in peace in the presence of the Lord. Continue to keep in prayer those selfless men and women who serve in the Armed Services, may God the Father keep them safe and protect them from harm.

Have a wonderful week.