Dear Parishioners,
            Lent....a time for spiritual growth and enrichment!  The word Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon word meaning "springtime."  Traditionally during Lent we are asked to pray, fast, and give to the poor.  "Rice bowls" are available for your contributions to help feed the hungry.  What extra things will you be doing for Lent?  More praying?  Perhaps some spiritual reading? As we journey together toward Easter, let us continue to pray for one another, that we will be faithful followers of the Gospel.
            IGNITE MEN'S CONFERENCE  -  this annual event brings together about 1,000 men from all over our diocese for a day of reflection, inspiration, and prayer.  This year it will be held on Saturday, March 24th at the SRC Event Center at Onondaga Community College. For more information and to register, go to our diocesan website:  www.syrdio.org
            Many thanks to all who helped with our pot luck dinner last Tuesday night.  It was a great success, and we had great food and conversation!  Thanks to our Fun-Raising Committee for their help with the dinner.
            Last April, I had a gathering with some of the men of the parish to talk about "male spirituality."  My hope was that we would start a regular men's spirituality group that would meet once a month for faith-sharing and socializing.  I would like to gather this group and any other men from our parish on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 10:00 a.m. in our conference room.  I will give a short presentation, and then we will break into small groups to do some "faith sharing."  I hope you can attend.
            During the flu season, you may wish to refrain from holding hands during the Our Father and shaking hands during the Sign of Peace.  In addition to hand sanitizers that are available on the church window ledges, we will provide sanitizing wipes for anyone who wants to use them. Also, each weekend after the Masses, the pews will be wiped down with the sanitary wipes to help eliminate germs.  Let's stay healthy!!
            Our Pastoral Council will meet on Sunday, Feb. 25 at 9:00 a.m.  Any parishioner is welcome to attend.
Many thanks. God Bless You,  Fr. Paul J. Alciati