It happens more often than not: but the second half or that time very close to the end of regulation time in many sporting events, is where all the memorable action takes place. How many football game victories are secured or lost, depending upon which team does what, with last second field goals and those bottoms of the ninth, walk-off home runs? Let's not forget those last second baskets that send home-town crowds screaming onto the basketball court? Overtime and shoot-out victories in hockey have become, at least this season, the norm.   There is the tension and the drama that lends itself to these sport scenes, bringing fans to their feet overcome with jubilation and exaltation.   As a sports fan myself, quite honestly, while I like a 'close game,' I'd rather not be put through the proverbial "ringer" so consistently and constantly, and be a hostage to these last second scenarios.  I have to think it can't be too good for the cardiovascular system, what with all that "heart-stopping" and "adrenaline-pumping" excitement!

We have come to, believe it or not, the 'second half' of Lent. Already, we've celebrated three full weeks of this holy season and now, the final, three weeks are before us. Exactly what will await us? Each one of us celebrates these church seasons differently and subjectively, while we do worship and take part in the Liturgy, collectively, as a community of faith. Still, we eagerly anticipate what is yet to come our way. What divine interventions and special graces will be bestowed upon us?

It is my hope, for all my dear sisters and brothers of St. Nicholas, that the remaining three weeks of Lent continue to provide us with, yet, even more invitations to delve deeper into personal and private prayer and devotion while actively and willingly engaging in parish ministry and service. And, what we start now in Lent will carry over into and throughout the remainder of our lives. My prayer is that God continues to intervene and be "first and foremost" in our lives, as we live our faith in manners that are pleasing to God and worthy of His name.

Before we know it, Lent will be a distant memory as we move into and through the Easter Season. That puts us full into spring with summer knocking at our door. Certainly, it would be a sad thing if we did not take full advantage of the blessed invitation we have all received to look within ourselves; to better know and understand our Lord; to engage in a deeper manner in the life of this community of faith.

The Lenten clock is ticking...time is running out. Let's make sure we are part of the action and not sitting on the side-lines. There is so much to gain and Jesus is the eternal and glorious prize that awaits us all. Continued blessings to one and all in these final three Lenten weeks and may we all be the truly victorious.

-Manny

manny@stnicholasepiscopal.org 

Frank Skepnek, a friend of St. Nicholas and a locksmith who has done some work for us:  his upcoming medical procedure goes well and he is home soon, fully healed and mended.

Thelma Malecek who is to undergo a medical procedure this week:  that all goes well and she is at tip-top shape.

Joanne Mangiaracina: after yet another hospital visit, she recover fully and completely and is back with us very soon.

In thanksgiving for Hope Smith's return home after her hospital stay.

In thanksgiving for Cathy Walters, Mindy Golden's sister, decision to pursue and continue her medical procedures in Los Angeles, to be close to family.

Quenten Fabiano, a friend of St. Nicholas was in a serious car accident and has suffered severe brain damage:  pray for his full and complete recovery and for the strength and perseverance of his family and friends. 

Pam Hallman: facing more surgery, we pray she recover fully, completely and soon.

Ken, the brother of our Mary Beth Jarvis who suffered a stroke on Christmas Eve.  Ken is currently in critical condition, having lost sight in his left eye and motion on his left side.  Pray for Ken, his recovery and his well being and pray for his family and friends for strength and support.

Marcia Kizior, sister of Bob DeHaven, who is in poor health.

Pamela Joy DeHaven, in thanksgiving for recovery and continued remission.   

The Fourth Sunday in Lent

Joshua 5:9-12 

Psalm 32  

2 Corinthians 5:16-21   

Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 

Chalice Bearers:   Sandra Glos and LaWayne Williams