Our Annual Lenten Mission: Entering Into the History and Spirituality of the Mass

The sacred season of Lent is an ideal time to renew our spiritual lives, reflect on the passion of Jesus Christ, and to deepen our relationship with Him. While it is often thought of as a time to give up something in our life, it can also be a time to take on something new, such as growing in understanding of our Catholic faith.

One way parishioners might consider doing this is through our parish’s annual Lenten Mission. Our former pastor, Fr. Tom Cloherty, will lead this year’s Lenten Mission from March 8 through March 10 at our parish.

“Lent provides us with a beautiful opportunity liturgically,” Fr. Tom says. “It helps people to carry out that resolve to deepen their relationship with the Lord.”

The main theme of the mission is the history and spirituality of the Mass. The mission takes place over the course of three one-hour evenings, from Tuesday through Thursday. On the first two evenings, Fr. Tom will bring participants through the history and development of the liturgy and spirituality of the Mass. On the final evening, he will accompany Fr. Garrett, who will celebrate the Mass, and Fr. Tom will provide some commentary as the Mass goes along, explaining why and how the liturgy happens the way it does.

“We can draw closer into our relationship with the Lord Himself, especially during such a sacred season,” Fr. Tom says.

This particular theme holds importance for all believers, given that the Eucharist is at the center of our belief — what Fr. Tom refers to it as an essential element, the summit of our faith. The COVID-19 pandemic created some obstacles to the in-person celebration of the Mass, and Fr. Tom hopes this retreat will help parishioners experience a deeper hunger and appreciation for the Eucharist. The mission is an opportunity for parishioners to return to in-person worship and reconnect to the summit of their faith lives. Being only three weeknight sessions, the mission is ideal for anyone in the parish to experience Lent in a deeper way, without a large time commitment. Fr. Tom encourages all parishioners to consider participating in the mission.

“It is one hour out of the whole day, an opportunity to come and be open to receiving how the Lord wants to touch and grace your life,” he says.

The Lenten Mission will take place March 8-10 at All Saints, from 7 to 8 p.m. For more information, please contact the parish office at 972-661-9282.

Fr. Tom Cloherty looks forward to joining All Saints for this year’s annual Lenten Mission. All are welcome to attend and learn about the spirituality and history of the Mass.