From the Pastor’s Desk: Why We Veil Crosses & Images This Week
From the Pastor’s Desk
5th Sunday of Lent
In the final weeks of Lent, we cover the crosses and images of the saints, excluding the Stations of the Cross, with plain purple cloths to build our longing for the glorious celebrations of Easter. This is a common tradition in the Churches of the United States, yet it would be good for us to consider the value of keeping this practice.Firstly, the purple veils remind of the sacred and penitential season of Lent, particularly important as we approach the days of Holy Week.
Secondly, by removing the images from our sight, we are encouraged to focus on the words of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, especially he Gospel and the prayers of Consecration.
Finally, in the last weeks of Lent we veil the beautiful images of the Lord and the saints as a reminder for us to fully engage in these days before Easter and to heighten our longing to celebrate the Easter Mysteries.
Hopefully these purple veils will aid us in our spiritual preparations as we place our hope in the victorious Christ who accepted the Cross for our salvation.
Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, pray for us!
Fr. Wilke
Local Penance Services
- Sunday, April 2 @ 7PM: St. Joan of Arc Parish, Hershey
- Monday, April 3 @ 7PM: St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Parish, Harrisburg
- Thursday, April 4 @ 7PM: St. Catherine Laboure Parish, Harrisburg
- Sunday, April 9 @ 7PM: St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish, New Cumberland
- Tuesday, April 11 @ 7PM: Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Harrisburg
- Wednesday, April 12 @ 7PM: Good Shepherd Parish, Camp Hill
Previous Post
Next Post