Category: From the Pastor’s Desk (Page 2 of 80)

Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

Throughout next week, the church building will be under construction. Daily Masses, Adoration and Stations of the Cross are canceled, and the building will be closed. As reported previously, the torn and rippled wall-to-wall carpeting in the nave and the narthex will be replaced, in order to eliminate trip-and-fall risks.   Also, a new pew frontal will be installed that will provide kneelers for those seated in the front pews. The project will provide additional depth to the    transept, which will facilitate the distribution of Holy Communion when a bridal party or casket are situated at the juncture of the transept and the center aisle.   Of great significance, though, I am happy to report that I have been handed checks from a number of donors totaling more than $30,000, which covers the lion’s share of the project. While some of these donors wish to remain anonymous at this time, I will publish more about these acts of generosity later.

With thanks and prayerful best wishes,
Fr. John Mahoney
 

“CALLED TO HOLY LIVING”

Are you a woman seeking more holiness in your life?  The 2026       Cornerstone Retreat may be what you are looking for. Cornerstone is an overnight women’s retreat which calls women to experience personal change and a deeper relationship with Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith. We come together from Friday evening, May15 through Sunday morning, May17 at The Silver Fox Inn, Waterville Valley.

For more information, please contact Genie Smith at (505) 250-9630 or 1gensmith@gmail.com. Registration deadline is March 31st.

“Source of Hope, Spring of Renewal, Pursue a Lasting Love!” 

During the observance of National Marriage Week (February 7-14) and World Marriage Day (February 8), let us pray for a culture of life and love, that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family. During the observance of National Marriage Week (February 7-14) and World Marriage Day (February 8), let us pray for a culture of life and love, that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family.

Ash Wednesday February 18, 2026
Holy Mass, with distribution of ashes, will be celebrated at 8:00 AM and 5:30 PM

LENTEN FASTING AND ABSTINENCE

Mandatory Fasting Days

Ash Wednesday (February 18) and Good Friday (April 3) are mandatory fasting days for Catholics aged 18 to 59, consisting of one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal another full meal.  Liquids (including water, coffee, and tea) are permitted, but eating between meals is not allowed. Medications are also permitted.

Mandatory Abstinence Days

All Fridays during Lent, including Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, require abstinence from meat for Catholics aged 14 and older.

Exemptions

Children, pregnant or nursing women, the elderly, the sick, and those whose health or work would be seriously affected are exempt from fasting and abstinence. The Church encourages common sense and pastoral discretion—no one should endanger their health to fulfill these obligations.