Happy New Year from Cross Catholic Outreach! Most of us are spending today reflecting on 2012—recalling the blessings of last year, while resolving to make 2013 the year to follow through on abandoned resolutions of the past.
This morning the entire Cross Catholic staff was able to participate in a special event halfway around the world. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, our offices in the U.S. joined our ministry partners in the Philippines for a special time of song and fellowship.
Jesus’ joyous entrance into Jerusalem on that long-ago Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, which we celebrated a few days ago. Now are we in the middle of the days preceding Christ’s crucifixion and subsequent resurrection on Easter Sunday. It’s amazing how the events of one week have had a colossal impact on history and on our lives to this very day.
We didn’t mark its official passing on the blog last month, but spring is upon us as of a few weeks ago! Time for farmers to think about spring planting, children to begin dreaming about summer vacation, and parents to plan a family afternoon outdoors. It’s wonderful to see God’s creation in full bloom!
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten season. For Catholics around the world, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of 40 days of earnest prayer, sincere self-reflection, and an intense focus on Christ.
Cross Catholic staff recently enjoyed a special treat in our morning devotions: an inspirational message on the words of Romans 8:28 led by one of our board members. Here’s a synopsis of what we heard and enjoyed: