A Word from Our Associate&

     One of the lessons I've been learning recently, is that I am dependent on others, and should recognize that a bit more in my life.  Teri Shea, the secretary, told me the other day that I was operating too independently, and that I should feel ok asking her to do some things for me.  The truth of her comment really struck me, and I realize that there are little things I've always just done myself (like looking up mailing addresses and phone numbers), that I could ask her to help me with, and thus I would find time to finish other work.  And there is something wonderful about a team approach.
     I also found another virus this past week, and it dragged me down some.  But I have learned much from others, who have instructed me in many ways: for example, not to just lie around, but to stay somewhat active when you're sick, even if you can take more rest as needed.  I found it energizing to actually get up and exercise.  And of course there is all those vitamins and drugs recommended, some of which I'm still learning about (e.g., Echinacea).
     As we approach this solemn season of Lent, it's encouraging to know that we are not alone in our spiritual practices.  What an encouragement to know that the whole church is praying and fasting in unison . . . seeking Jesus Christ.  In a certain way, we could look at the Church as a team, and our goal is to help each other get to heaven.
     Fr. Michael

Faith Formation&
GROUP FIRST EUCHARIST
Practice:  Thursday, April 19 @ 6:00 p.m.
Group First Eucharist: Sunday, April 22 @ 1:30 p.m.
(Bring your child directly to the cafeteria)
FAMILY FIRST EUCHARIST
NOTE CORRECTION: Practice: Thursday, April 19 @7:30 p.m.
Family First Eucharist:  Saturday, April 21 or Sunday, April 22 at the 4:30, 7:30, 9:30 or 11:30 Mass.  (20 per Mass)
If you have questions please call the Faith Formation Office @ 651-633-1540.

Adult Faith Formation&
SEEKERS:  ADULT THEOLOGICAL BOOK CLUB
There will be no meeting in March.  For our April 5 meeting, we have selected a novel:  The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver.  The book is available at the Ramsey County library or at your favorite book store.  Read the selection for April and join us at our next meeting:  Thursday, April 5, 7:00--8:30 p.m. in the Parish Center.  Questions?  Call Mary Ann Zervas at 651-633-1540.

BENEDICTINE CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY
THE PRAYER OF FORGIVENESS  The Prayer of Forgiveness is very private.  No one will be asked to reveal anything.  Using "active imagination" we will place ourselves in the hand of God and ask that God send us the person we need to forgive and be forgiven by.  The results are amazing when we enter this experience in trust and faith.  Wednesday, March 7--7:00--9:00 p.m. with Patricia Roberts.  Cost $30
SOUL- MAKING One great way of staying on the path of self-knowledge is keeping a journal in which we write the story of the soul.  This weekend will reveal simple but effective ways of unfolding one's story through journaling.  7:30 p.m. Friday, August 3-- 10:30 a.m. Sunday, August 5  with Carl Koch.  Cost $160 (includes two overnight stays, meals and materials)
THE GIFT OF TIME A three hour workshop to consider the human experience of time and the celebration of the liturgical year.  Saturday, March 10--9:00 a.m. to Noon with Ellen Oak.  Cost $30
Call (651) 777-7251 for more information.

Circle of Women&
Sr. Virginia Matter OSB will be our guest speaker on Thursday, March 1.  Sr. Virginia is a certified spiritual guide, retreat director, and teacher of Centering Prayer and meditation.  As a potter experienced in Native American creative arts, she brings this medium into oneness with Christian spirituality, praying with scriptures and group spiritual direction.  Sr. Virginia is a member of Spiritual Directors International and a Benedictine of St. Paul's Monastary, St. Paul, MN.  She will speak with us on the topic, "Prayer:  A Reflection of Scripture."
Circle of Women invites ALL women of ALL ages to join from 9:15--11:25 a.m. in the parish center, lower level. Childcare is available during the Circle of Women, register your child by  calling our Children's Program  Coordinator, Kari Gill @763-785-6947.

Monthly Prayer Vigil&
MONTHLY PRAYER VIGIL--MARCH 1, 2001
The Blessed Sacrament is really Jesus and He is there for you, no matter how great your needs are.  He is present in the Blessed Sacrament; expecting, inviting and welcoming all who come to Him. 
Adoration is from 9:00 a.m.--9:00 p.m. this Thursday in the Chapel.  The southwest door of the church will be open during those hours.  You are invited to sign on the board by the church entrances so that Our Lord may be continuously attended during vigil hours.