St. Michael Parish

 The word "Lent," which we use to name the 40-day season of preparation for Easter, is a Teutonic word which simply means spring, as in the season. It has been used since Anglo-Saxon times to replace the more significant Latin term quadresima, meaning, literally, fortieth day, or simply 40 days. This year, the First Sunday of Lent, March 10th, marks a return to daylight savings time, and more sunlight, and, soon, the beginning of spring itself.

     We spend Lent anticipating the Passion of the Lord and His glorious Resurrection, and as we use this time to reflect on all that Jesus has done for us, we would all do well to take Him up on the grace He offers so richly in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

     This Lent, the priests of the downtown Catholic parishes of Jersey City are working together to provide more opportunities for the faithful to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation ("Confession.") Listed below are the locations and dates (all Monday evenings) when most or all of the priests of downtown Jersey City will gather to offer Confessions from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.:
                              Monday March 18: Holy Rosary Church, 344 Sixth Street;
                              Monday March 25: Saint Mary Church, 254 Second Street;
                              Monday April 1: Saint Michael Church, 252 Ninth Street;
                              Monday April 8: Saint Anthony Church, 330 Sixth Street.
     
      Of course, we continue to offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation here at Saint Michael Church from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday as well as by appointment. The Sacrament is a unique way to experience truly the Lord's mercy and forgiveness, and we owe it to ourselves to go to the Sacrament frequently, but especially during the life-giving season of Lent.
   
     God bless you!

     Sincerely yours in Christ,
     Father Tom Quinn
     Pastor