“While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” (John 9:5)
The Light of Christ Brings Joy
Today is the fourth Sunday of Lent, called “Laetare Sunday.” Laetare in Latin means “rejoice.” This is taken from the Latin translation of Is 66:10-11. This joyful tone suggests the joyful anticipation of the Easter mystery. It is highlighted by the rose-colored vestments that may be worn today.
In today’s Gospel (Jn 9:1-41), we also read the story of the man born blind. St. John describes in detail, how Jesus opened his eyes: “he spat on the ground and made clay with the saliva, and smeared the clay on his eyes, and said to him, “Go wash in the Pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So he went and washed, and came back able to see.” (Jn 9:6-7)
The use of material substances by Jesus to heal the blind man is quite remarkable. This action anticipates Jesus institution of the sacraments through the various elements that make a valid sacrament: Mater (saliva and sand,), Form / Prayer (Jesus’ prayerful smearing of the clay on the blind man’s eyes), Intention (to open his eyes), and the Minister (Jesus himself).
Jesus seeks to open our eyes by freeing us from the darkness of unbelief, sinfulness, fear, anxiety, pain, and sadness. He seeks to give us rest from the burdens of our daily life through the sacraments, such as baptism, Eucharist, penance, etc. He tells us, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”(Mt 11:28-30)
Universal Church Directories' photographer will be at Holy Family to take pictures for our NEW Church Directory on May 16-17 and May 25-27. We will begin scheduling reservations April 8/9 after all masses. To schedule your photo session online, please see the document below.
New parishioners: All Catholics living within the parish boundaries (Copperas Cove and Kempner) and regularly participate in the liturgy are invited to register online. Keep in mind, church attendance alone does not make you and your family registered members. Your Privacy is Our Priority - This information is confidential and will only be used for the purpose of registering you and/or your family with Holy Family Catholic Church. We do not and will not share your information with any other individuals or businesses. This is our pledge to you!
Beginning Ash Wednesday, Feb 22. Click on the picture to register. From there, select your parish and follow the on-screen registration instructions.
You can unlock all of Hallow’s content by selecting our parish and entering your email: hallow.com/holyday
Hallow is a Catholic prayer and meditation app with over 5,000 sessions. The content ranges from daily meditations, traditional prayers, Bible stories for sleep, kids and family prayers, mental health meditations, Seasonal music, and so much more.
Consider using our secure electronic giving program. eGiving will automatically process any offertory or second collection donations of your choosing. It is the most convenient way to make sure that the parish receives your gift regularly. No more checks to write or envelopes to worry about. Please click on the picture or call the office (254-547-3735) if you need assistance to establish eGiving.
Parishioners who are unable to walk in the communion line to receive the Eucharist during weekend Masses are asked to inform an usher before Mass begins each week. This will ensure that the head usher directs the Extraordinary Minister to your seat and that you do not miss the opportunity to receive Our Lord.
If you or a family member are ill or facing surgery, and would like to be anointed, please contact the office to let Fr. Augustine know at least 2 days in advance of your scheduled procedure. When it is not an emergency, please call before going to the hospital. Our number is 254-547-3735.
If you are interested in sponsoring the flowers in the church in memory of a loved one or a special celebration, please stop by the parish office.
• Cost: $80+
Stay connected with our parish throughout the week with an easy-to-access calendar. Also enjoy additional features like prayers, daily readings, helpful reminders to silence your phone before Mass or Confession, and much more. Click on the picture below to get started or come by the parish office if you need assistance.