Church guide

This afternoon parishioners from across our Pastorate met at St Augustine’s for a traditional Blessing of Easter Baskets. https://www.hbgdiocese.org/the-blessing-of-easter-baskets-a-cherished-catholic-tradition/

http://www.ncregister.com/blog/jimmy-akin/9-things-you-need-to-know-about-good-friday

http://m.ncregister.com/blog/jimmy-akin/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-holy-thursday2

We offer our heartfelt prayers to the people of France after the tragic fire at Notre Dame Cathedral. The vision of the illuminated cross still intact within the Sanctuary reminds us however that God and his church always remains. About 800 years ago, while praying at the church of San Damiano, St. Francis of Assisi heard Jesus speak to him from the crucifix: “Go, rebuild my church which is falling down.” Francis thought God wanted him to physically rebuild the collapsing church building, so he started making repairs to the structure. Over time, Francis realized that God wanted him to rebuild the entire Church around the world through prayer, poverty, and peace. After election it was through prayerful intercession that our Holy Father chose the name Francis. As we prepare to enter the Paschal Triduum we ask that you pray for the entire church so that in prayer, poverty, and peace he might lead us in rebuilding God’s Church.

The Reverse Lent Challenge This year for Lent, don’t give something up. Take something on. The Catholic Parishes of South Washington County pastorate will again be offering a perfect opportunity for you and your family to “Take something on” by supporting Holly Place Assisted Living facility in Hagerstown. We will be serving dinner to the 15 residents each Wednesday during Lent. Holly Place is a non-profit assisted living home for the elderly, located at 268 South Potomac Street in Hagerstown, MD. It was organized to serve those who cannot afford commercial assisted living and have no other place to go. Some residents have no income other than Social Security and some have no family remaining. Holly Place serves 15 residents in a clean, safe and homelike environment. The Mission of Holly Place is to provide affordable housing and supportive services in an environment that promotes independence and dignity. You will have the opportunity to prepare and serve dinner and/or provide light entertainment, i.e. bingo, live music or singing, to the resident who are always appreciative of the time we spend with them. This is a perfect family or small group activity. If you are interested in assisting with this effort or for more information please contact Donna Bockstanz at [email protected] or 240-285-7971. Our first night will be Wednesday, March 13th.