The Faith Page - March

FOR THE KINGDOM, THE POWER AND THE GLORY
ARE YOURS, NOW AND FOREVER

Where did this come from? It’s not in either the gospel of Matthew or the gospel of Luke when Jesus gives us the Lord’s prayer. (Matt. 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4). I always wonder why protestant churches say it but we don’t. Is it from the Catholic Church? Yes. It came from early believers to the Church. On the “Our Lady of Sorrows” web site it states, “These early writings never present it as an essential part of the “Our Father”, but rather an “embolism," (added prayer), intended to increase fervor and direct the intention of the faithful.” Early believers were moved by the Spirit to add “fervor” to their prayers. Pretty cool.

Could you use a little added fervor to your prayer life? Maybe now is a good time to reflect on how your communication with God is going. As we approach Lent we usually reflect on what we are giving up or doing for Lent. The ultimate goal is to strengthen our relationship with God. This Lent we are starting Eucharistic Adoration in our Parish. Monsignor Costigan explained at Church that is just simply sitting “watch” in the presence of Jesus. In Matthew 26:40 Jesus says, "So you could not keep watch with me for one hour?” Think about these very profound words of Christ. Have you become too busy to spend an hour with Jesus? Are you too tired? One hour a week is all you will sacrifice of your time. However, I believe it is something you will find you long for. One hour of quiet peace in the presence of Jesus. Is it really a sacrifice?

Let’s spice things up this Lent at Saint Peter’s with added fervor. Let’s pray for each other. For our school. For Our Parish. For Monsignor Costigan. For Fr. Marius. For Sister Roberta. For our teachers and faculty. For our children. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into a more prayerful more holy community. Make a prayer list and pray each day as a family. God seeks us with His love let’s return the fervor. - John Ebberwein

If you are interested in Eucharistic Adoration please call the church office at 897-5156.