Dear St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish Family,  
 
Just a little less than a year ago, during the season of Lent 2020, life as we knew it came to a startling and sudden halt with the appearance of COVID-19 in our communities; and now, almost a year later, we continue to cope with its challenges. Many of us have personally battled the virus or know someone who did. Others continue to shelter at home, away from relatives and close friends, battling loneliness and depression. Some of us are finding it financially difficult to make ends meet and others are sacrificing their personal wellbeing on the front lines to provide goods and services for the people in their communities. And worst of all, some of us have lost loved ones to this terrible illness.  
 
As your pastor, I urge you not to lose hope. On February 17, Ash Wednesday ushers in the 46 days of prayer, sacrifice, and repentance that lead up to the most sacred Easter Triduum. And, as we were physically separated last year during the majority of the Lenten and entire Easter season, this year we will be able to worship together, both in person and online, although it may look a little different than in previous years. 
 
On Ash Wednesday, our parish will offer Masses at 9:15 a.m. and 7 p.m. and a prayer service at 12:15 p.m. Ashes will be distributed at all three services. As a reminder from the Diocese of Scranton, receiving ashes is not a requirement – those who cannot receive ashes can still enter into the season of Lent with a repentant heart.  
 
Additionally, per the diocesan guidelines, there will be no direct contact during the distribution of ashes. Instead, ashes will be sprinkled on the top of the head, as has been done in much of the world for many years. No doubt this method of distributing ashes will be new for most of us in our parish, but it is a sacrifice we must make to ensure the health and safety of everyone. 
 
While there will be no area Penance services this Lent, you will have the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation each Monday from 9:45-10:15 a.m., following Daily Mass. You can also make an appointment for Confession at any time by contacting the parish office. Stations of the Cross will take place every Wednesday during Lent leading up to Holy Week following 9:15 a.m. Mass and at 7 p.m. And, for Palm Sunday, blessed palms will be handed out to all parishioners as in previous years. This will be done safely, following all diocesan COVID-19 guidelines. 
 
For the Sacred Triduum, we will have more information in the coming weeks on guidelines for those Masses and services. I humbly thank you for your patience and understanding as we celebrate this most sacred liturgical season together.     
 
This Lent, let us keep our eyes on the prize, remembering that through Jesus’s example, light will conquer darkness. My sincere prayer for all of you is that during this challenging time, that you remember Jesus, His suffering, and His resurrection, and that it may bring you closer to your families, friends, and to the Lord, and allow you to focus on what is most important to each and every one of you as we move closer to the end of these difficult days of the pandemic.  
 
I also ask you once again to join with me in prayer for all of those who are suffering from illness and the doctors, nurses, and all health care employees who are working so hard and sacrificing so much at this time for the sake of others. I also ask that you keep our essential workers in your prayers as well.  
 
Our parish has thrived during these challenging days, thanks to the support and generosity of all of you. My hope is that our parish continues on that path as we appreciate the gift of each other, our faith, and our parish family.  
 
I wish you all a fulfilling Lenten season.  
  
In Christ’s Enduring Love,  
Father Sean