A Time of Grace

The Easter season is a time of grace and stepping into the resurrection of

our Lord Jesus Christ. Divine Mercy Sunday was last weekend and a

powerful source of forgiveness and grace. Throughout the year the Church

offers opportunities for indulgences which is the remission before God of

the temporal punishment due to sins already forgiven in confession.

Depending on the indulgence we can apply this healing balm to ourselves

or for our beloved dead. Praying the rosary or stations of the Cross,

reading scripture or going to adoration for 30 minutes or being on

pilgrimage are all ways of gaining these graces. Doing these or other

options requires sacramental confession, receiving Holy Communion and

prayer for the Pope’s intention. Holy Mother Church wishes to offer her

children many ways and supports in growing in our relationship with Jesus

that leads us to our eternal salvation.

Part of the work of the Church on earth is through events or meetings. This

week we have a number of things happening and I am asking that you

keep them in prayer and that they be fruitful for all who are a part of them.

Wednesday I will be in La Crosse for the Admission Boards. We have

some young men who feel drawn to the priesthood and that is one of the

steps along their journey. That evening is the Deanery/area wide Youth

Rally with Jason Evert which will be held at St. Bronislava parish. On

Thursday the Deans meeting with the Bishop. On Saturday is the second

College student lead retreat from 9 am to 2 pm. The Mass for that event

is at 10 am. It is uplifting to see the college students reach out to St. Peter

to host and feel comfortable here in prayer. I encourage your continued

welcome of them along with your prayerful support as they take this time to

spend with the Lord building that sense of community; of being the one

Body of Christ.

—Father John A. Potaczek