Beloved St. James family members
“We have all become like one who is unclean; all our righteousness are like filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6
A poor boy in dirty and torn clothes walked into a London orphanage. The superintendent asked the boy the purpose of his coming. The boy replied: “I would like to live here.” The man replied: “I do not know you; do you have any recommendations?” The boy held up his torn clothes and said, “nothing more than these rags, sir; I thought this should be sufficient proof to let me in.” Immediately, the superintendent swept him into his arms and into the orphanage, where he was washed and given new clothes and fed. Lenten season is specially set apart by the church when we repent of our sins and come home to the arms of a loving father by exchanging our rags with new clothes.
As we step into the month of March, we will be in a very profound and sacred season in our spiritual life – Great Lent. Great Lent will begin on March 2nd. This season offers us an opportunity for deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and a closer walk with Christ. Lent is a time to pause and examine our hearts, to repent, and to draw nearer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices that Jesus made for our salvation and to respond with gratitude and a renewed commitment to follow Him. Christ’s journey to the cross was not imposed or accidental, it was a self-giving. The Church invites us not only to focus on giving up certain things but also on taking up the call to embrace the things that strengthen us to grow in faith. In these 50 days, let us seek opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection, whether through daily Scripture reading, or attending Lenten services.
This Lent is an opportunity and time for us to share what we have with others, and to remember and help those who cannot live like us. As a parish, we decided to give a new house to a most deserving family. It is our responsibility to fulfil it without delay. During this 50-day lent time, each family can raise and contribute $ 100 for this project by setting aside $ 2 per day. Lenten prayers are arranged from mid-lent on Wednesday, 26 March 2025. Those who are interested in arranging the Lenten prayer at home make the arrangements for that.
2 March 2025 Sunday will be observed as our Diocesan Sunday. It is our responsibility to participate in and contribute to the general growth and development of our Diocese. Requesting the participation of all families by making our contributions to the needs of the Diocese.
Lent isn’t merely a liturgical tradition; it’s an invitation- an invitation extended by the church but one that resonates from the very essence of our faith. As we journey towards the cross, let us remember that we do not walk this path alone – we walk it together, as a family of faith. May this Lenten season be one of deep spiritual renewal and hope as we look forward to the glory of the Resurrection.
God bless You All.
Ajith Varghese Achen
253 Ehrhardt Rd
Pearl River, Ny 10965
Email:- stjamesmtcny@gmail.com
