Dear Pilgrims of Hope, 

Opportunity is knocking. Now, why would I use that phrase for a Lenten letter? Notice I have changed the wording from the common phrase, "Opportunity only knocks once." 

When I was younger, Lent seemed to me a period to get through, to be endured, a season in the Church that I did not see as an opportunity but rather a season of burden and constraint. But now, I stand before you, a testament to the transformative power of Lent. I have come to realize that Lent is not a season of burden, but a season of op­portunity. An opportunity to ex­perience and grow in the things we hold most dear in life, i.e., love, peace, and joy. 

Lent is an opportunity for these things and more. It is a time to look at our prayer life and ask how we can increase it or change it to deepen our com­munion with The Father. This deepening of our communion with The Father is not a burden but a source of joy and peace that can significantly improve our lives. 

Lent is a time to give of our­selves, whether alms or our time and talents. "Giving is not only the way to love others, but it often satisfies us ... 

It is a time to walk away from sin and into our Father's loving arms, especially in the Sacra­ment of Reconciliation. The less we sin, the more peaceful and happier we are. Lent is a time to experi­ence the freedom that comes from focusing on what is essential in our lives and letting go of things that cause anxiety. 

Lent is a time to experience the benefits of fasting. It helps us gain more control over our sinful actions, leading to a sense of peace and self­approval. Most importantly, it's a time to deepen our awareness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit's love for us. 

Lent: Let's open the door and embrace the possibilities it brings. An opportunity is indeed knocking. 



Peace, 

Father Maassen