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This is the first in a series of several articles reflecting upon the Sacrament of Baptism.
We are approaching the season of Lent, a time set aside by the Church to help us prepare for Easter.
For many, this season is seen as a time that we “give something up.” While offering ourselves to God always is important, the Church primarily views Lent through the lens of Baptism. In fact, here is what the Church says about Lent:
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I write these words on the 100th anniversary of the birth of Thomas Merton, one of the greatest spiritual writers of the 20th century and a man who had a decisive influence on me and my vocation to the priesthood.
I first encountered Merton’s writing in a peculiar way. My brother and I were both working at a bookstore in the Chicago suburbs. One afternoon, he tossed me a tattered paperback with a torn cover that the manager had decided to discard.
MADISON — As part of Catholic Schools Week, students in the Peer Ministry class at Edgewood High School had a chance to give back and help younger students grow in their faith.
The Peer Ministry class challenges students to develop their personal faith and leadership potential. Students plan and lead liturgies and prayer services throughout the semester along with participating and leading retreats and service programs.
MONONA — Some of the best ideas come from prayer. When we really listen and open our ears, mind, and heart to God, his message can bring us closer to him and help others.
This very thing happened recently for nine-year-old Lucia Matenaer.
After nightly family prayers during Christmas break, she excitedly ran to her parents with an idea.
MADISON — Catholic attorneys will be intrigued at their next meeting as they hear about the Global Common Good from Br. Edward van Merrienboer, OP.
With both national and international experience in working for the Common Good, Brother Edward has served in Rome as an adjunct faculty member of Aquinas Institute, as chair of the Department of Theology and Philosophy of Barry College, at a Newman center, and currently as director of faith formation at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Madison.
MADISON — Valentyna Pavsyukova, founder of the nonprofit organization Chalice of Mercy, will speak at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Thursday, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. in the Gordon Dining and Event Center. Badger Catholic invites all students and their friends to join the organization’s General Speaker Event, “Ukraine: The City Without God.”
Women and men whose lives have been touched by abortion are invited to attend a Rachel’s Vineyard retreat.
SULLIVAN — Kila and Scott Hagie are a young couple who were married at St. Mary Help of Christians Church on May 6, 2006, with Fr. Eric Nielsen officiating.
Their lives forever changed with the birth and death of their premature daughter. Father Nielsen buried Fiona Ailish in the parish cemetery months into their new marriage.
The following events are coming up at Schoenstatt Heights, 5901 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison.
Saturday, Feb. 7, and Saturday, March 7: Open House
All are welcome to come and learn about the Schoenstatt Shrine, history, and movement from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m.
In this Year of Consecrated Life, come and meet the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary who reside at Schoenstatt Heights.
SINSINAWA — The Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters invite the public to an open house event at Sinsinawa Mound Sunday, Feb. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. featuring tours of the heritage exhibit and Fr. Samuel Mazzuchelli exhibit, refreshments, and a 2:30 p.m. prayer service to celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life declared by Pope Francis for 2015.
Nearly 1,000 Catholic Sisters live and work in the tri-state area.
