Reflection: Lent is a journey that leads us to Easter, passing through the cross. On the first Sunday we contemplate the temptations; now, on the second, the Church gives us a preview of glory. Before speaking of suffering, God shows us the light through the passage of the Transfiguration of the Lord. In this gospel, Jesus takes Peter, James and John as His witnesses to a high mountain, called Mount Tabor, and there He is transfigured before them: His face shines like the sun, and His garments become white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Him, and a voice from heaven says, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”
The Transfiguration in Matthew 17:1-9 is an experience of deep encounter with Jesus. The disciples, amazed, want to stay there: Lord, it is good that we are here. That phrase reflects our desire to remain in moments of spiritual comfort when we feel peace, clarity, or joy in faith. However, Jesus does not let them stay on the mountain; they must go down and continue the journey to Jerusalem, where the cross awaits Him, showing that the mission must go on – a mission where pain and suffering will be present, but with the hope that something greater will come, and that is eternal peace with God, who is the fullness of light.

This passage teaches us three important things:

1. We must climb the mountain: That is, seek moments of prayer, silence, and encounter with God. Amid our routines, the “mountain” can be the Eucharist, adoration, reading the Word.
2. Listen to Jesus: The voice of the Father does not say “admire him,” but “listen to him.” Lent is a privileged time to fine-tune ear of the heart and let ourselves be guided by His Word.
3. Glory comes through the cross: The light of the Transfiguration strengthens the disciples for when they see Jesus suffer. We also need to remember that after sacrifice comes resurrection, and resurrection is accompanied by the Divine light (God).

Thanksgiving: I want to thank all the people who helped with the Knights of Columbus project by buying chicken, and I also want to thank those who honored us with their presence in the Station of the Cross and in sharing the Fish Fry. This is an activity that unites us in prayer and at the table, but especially, it allows us to come together as a community or family in Christ Jesus. I hope you continue to join us.
Statement: True transfiguration occurs when we let the light of God transform our lives. So, how transfigured am I?

Our parish is seeking a volunteer to serve as Parish Historian. This important ministry helps preserve the story of our faith community by collecting, organizing, and maintaining records, photographs, and significant events in the life of our parish. The Parish Historian will help document milestones, sacramental celebrations, special events, and other moments that reflect the rich history and growth of our church family. This role ensures that future
generations will know and appreciate the legacy of our parish.
If you have an interest in history, organization, photography, or record-keeping — or simply a love for our parish and its story — we would love to hear from you. Please contact the parish office to volunteer.

Monday, March 2nd – 6pm Officers’ Meeting followed by dinner at 6:30pm and 7pm for the Regular Council Meeting in the Parish Hall – All Knights Welcome to attend all portions of the evening.

Tuesday, March 10th – 6pm 4th Degree Alpine Assembly Meeting with refreshments at St. Mark’s in Clarkesville, GA

Our parish community is starting a trout fishing club. This informal group will hold its first meeting on Thursday, March 5 at 7PM in the parish hall. The group’s emphasis will be on beginner and intermediate fly fishers, focusing
on instructional practice and regular fishing outings. Interested? Contact Deacon Rich at 770-910-3339 or richthibs@gmail.com.

The Knights of Columbus ask for your support in our effort to collect canned goods for the local White County Food Pantry. The Food Pantry had its start with our Knights Council and continues to have many Knights volunteer their time on a weekly basis. We will have a silver can placed in the Parish Hall throughout Lent. We ask each parish family that is able to donate a can for each day of Lent. You can involve your entire family in this fun and meaningful way to help others. Please remember only NON- PERISHABLE food items in cans, boxes or bags. Load up some cans before you head over to the Stations of the Cross and Lenten Fish Fry Dinners on Friday nights. See you there!

The Knights of Columbus will be serving the Parish Breakfast after the 8am and 10am Masses on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Please join your fellow parishioners for a delicious breakfast of eggs, omelets, bacon, sausage, pancakes, French toast, grits, hash browns, fresh fruit, juice and hot coffee. Please join the Knights to enjoy a delicious breakfast and visit with your fellow parishioners.

Mark your calendars for the next St. Paul’s meeting of COR. Join local Catholic men in faith and fraternity. Learn how your Catholic faith can be relevant to your life. Thursday, March 12th at 7pm in the Parish Hall. We will be led by Father Fabio, Deacon Rich, and Juan Gutierrez to more deeply live our lives as men of the Catholic faith. ALL parish men are invited. Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Call Steve Watkins for questions 727-527-0390

Please Join Us for the Stations of the Cross starting February 20 through March 22. The Stations will be in the church starting at 6:00pm. Fish Fry supper will be in the Parish Hall after the conclusion of the Stations.

Join the Knights of Columbus and the Hispanic Food Ministry for a tasty Lenten Fish Fry.

Fridays during Lent: March 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th

Located in the Parish Hall immediately after the 6pm Stations of the Cross

Fried fish, grilled fish, shrimp, grits, sides, and desserts.

Age 13+ = $12 per person includes beverage and dessert!

Age 5-12 = $5 person includes beverage and dessert!

Age 4 and under FREE

Don’t forget some extra cash for the 50/50 Drawing

All proceeds support our Parish needs including the Our Lady of Grace Education Center renovations

For information on getting your photos taken, please check the bulletin insert for the flyer. Click on Weekly Bulletin; then click on Bulletin Insert 3/1/26 for details for online registration for family sittings.

For information contact: Antonella Skinner 954-330-8821

Because the fourth Saturday of the month often conflicts with other events – resulting in frequent cancellations – we will now meet on the second Saturday of each month. Accordingly, our next gathering will be Saturday, March 14, immediately following the 5:00PM Mass. All Cursillistas, as well as anyone interested in learning more about the Cursillo Movement, are warmly invited to attend. Please bring a dish to share. We look forward to seeing you there!