Third Sunday of Lent

My Dear Parishioners,
 
Today we mark the Third Sunday of Lent as we gather to celebrate the Lord’s Day. The symbol of water takes a prominent place in the Scriptural texts which are presented to us for our reflection. In the Gospel the Samaritan Woman meets Christ the Savior at the well in Nablus where He offers her “ water welling up to eternal life.” As their dialogue continues she becomes amazed at what the Lord says and she sets out to share the news of what has been told her. Her testimony inspires others to meet the Lord Jesus and so they go forth to quench their spiritual thirst. In Church Tradition the Samaritan Woman is named PHOTIA, which means light. She is the evangelist who brings others to Christ by the power of her testimony. She had introduced her neighbors to Christ who now tell her, “ We no longer believe because of your word; for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Savior of the world.”
 
Witnessing to our faith is a powerful evangelical tool. Speaking about faith to others at home and in the marketplace is what we are called to do. Today’s secular culture tells us that this witness is acceptable in the privacy of one’s home, but not in the marketplace. Not only is this a human rights violations but above all it is a violation of the Lord’s command to “ Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Mat.28:19)
 
We have a variety of opportunities to be like Saint Photia and lead others to Christ. Our invitation to come along with us to Mass, Bible study, faith formation gatherings and more are the “Wells” where we can meet Christ and come to faith. From these places we go forth witnessing and inviting others to meet Christ the Lord.
 
Today we are selling tickets to really wonderful Catholic experience called REBOOT. This event will take place on Friday evening, April 21st at Saint Theresa School Auditorium in Succasunna running from 7 to 9:30. You will be inspired by the witness of evangelist Christ Stefanik and entertained by contemporary Christian music. This will be a wonderful evening of inspiration.  Definitely this is something you do not want to miss and definitely this is something to which you should invite a friend, especially one who needs faith to be rebooted!
 
God Bless you!
Father Zig