St. Boniface Catholic
by Sue Beams

On Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion, members of St. Boniface proceeded into the church with newly blessed branches of palm. This tradition represents the first public demonstration of our loyalty to Christ. During the Gospel the congregation participated in reading the Passion of our Lord, Jesus Christ according to Matthew.

In his homily, Deacon Steve Curry posed the question, "What's left to say?" He encouraged us to re-read the Bible ... GOD wins the war! It is the will of the father that all will be saved! God the Father would not have us go through the trials and tribulations on this earth for a hopeless word! Steve called upon each of us to be emissaries of hope in this world. The word `gospel ' means `Good News.' Beware of false theories that are messages of doom. Our hope and salvation is in the Lord and is ours for the asking!

Iris Mamo introduced the topic for the final installment of our Lenten Devotion. This week we are encouraged to reflect on the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. Instructing, advising, consoling, comforting, forgiving and bearing wrongs patiently are spiritual works.

The corporal works consist in feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned, and burying the dead. Iris challenged members of St. Boniface to bring an item of food each week as a great place to start! In performing works of mercy, do so intentionally with heartfelt commitment.

The Holy Week schedule is as follows: Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord's Supper will begin at 6:00 pm with the traditional washing of the feet, Exposition of the Eucharist, traditional Bread and Wine following Mass and Adoration (which continues until 10:00 pm.)

On Good Friday, beginning at 4:00 pm, Stations of the Cross (outdoors, weather permitting) followed by the Celebration of the Lord's Passion, Veneration of the Cross and Communion. The Easter Vigil (Saturday) Mass will begin at 8:00 pm. The Easter Sunday Masses are at 9:30 am and 12:30 pm (in Spanish).

From all reports received, The Passion Play was well attended! Congratulations to all who participated on a job well done. A lot of hard work, long hours, sweat and tears go into this production. It is a true blessing to see the community of churches pull together for the Love of the Lord. Thank you so much for putting the Word into action. We ask God's blessing upon each and every one of you!

Congratulations and best wishes to all who celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. We pray for those who are sick and suffering. Remember, too, the faithful departed; may they rest in peace. May God protect our men and women in the armed services who will be spending another holiday/Holy Day away from their loved ones. May He shelter them and bring them home safely and soon!

God bless you!