I. The Most Reverend John Jeremiah McRaith (December 6, 1934-March 19, 2017): The Diocese mourns the loss of Bishop McRaith, whom we laid to rest on Friday, March 24. He was appointed as the third Bishop of Owensboro in October 1982 by Pope John Paul II and served as the good shepherd of our diocese until his retirement for health reasons in January of 2009. We remember his gentle spirit with fondness, his compassion for the poor, his empowerment of the laity, his ecumenical spirit, his simple life style, and his sense of humor. May he rest now in the peace of our Lord.
II. A Man Born Blind: “’Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered “Neither. . .it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him.’” We all know this story—Jesus heals this blind man, but first he tells him and the crowd (in which quite a few Pharisees stood) “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Jesus ultimately reminds the Pharisees who is really blind; it is them. Their pride prevented them from seeing the miracle and from seeing their savior standing right in front of them. Jesus, who heals all ills, open my eyes to see as you see. How is your sight?
III. Laetare Sunday: The fourth Sunday (or middle Sunday)of Lent—Laetare means “rejoice.” Strictly speaking, the Thursday before Laetare Sunday is the middle day of Lent, and it was at one time observed as such, but afterwards the special signs of joy permitted on this day, intended to encourage the faithful in their course through the season of penance, were transferred to the Sunday following. They consist of (like those of Gaudete Sunday in Advent) in the use of flowers on the altar and rose-colored vestments instead of purple. It is thus emphasized, and is emblematical of the joys of this life, restrained rejoicing mingled with a certain amount of sadness. Our time of penance will soon be turned to the triumphant joy of the celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.
IV. Liturgical Volunteers Needed – Holy Week and Easter are right around the corner. Liturgical volunteers are needed to serve as Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Sacristans, Altar Servers, and Hospitality Ministers. If you haven’t signed up yet, please check the online schedule and sign up today…or call the Parish Office. We are anticipating large crowds for our liturgies and greatly appreciate your help!
V. Spring Cleanup Day – Saturday, April 1, 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. Spring has officially arrived! If you enjoy working outdoors and have some time to share, bring your work gloves and elbow grease (along with any rakes, brooms, and pruners you may have) and participate in a spring cleanup day. We’ll be working to ‘spruce up’ the Cathedral grounds with some lawn work, window washing, and painting. Many hands make light work—all are welcome! Meet at 8:00 am at the Parish Office. Hope to see you there