Parish Updates, News & Events — March 15, 2026

Fourth Sunday of Lent — Walking from Darkness to Light

This Fourth Sunday of Lent reminds us that Christ is the light who opens our eyes to faith. In the Gospel of John, Jesus heals the man born blind and leads him gradually to belief. What begins as a physical healing becomes a deeper spiritual awakening. As we continue our Lenten journey, we are invited to ask God for the grace to see more clearly — to recognize Christ, follow Him faithfully, and reflect His light to others.

From the Pastor’s Desk — Spiritual Reflection

In this week’s Gospel (John 9), Jesus encounters a man born blind and gradually leads him from darkness into the light of faith. At first the man recognizes Jesus only as a healer, then as a prophet, and finally as the Son of Man worthy of worship.

Meanwhile, those who believe they already see — the religious leaders — become increasingly blind to God’s work.

This powerful contrast reminds us that faith is often a journey. Conversion usually happens gradually as Christ continues to reveal Himself through prayer, sacrifice, charity, and trust in God.

Jesus also challenges a common misunderstanding about suffering. When the disciples ask who sinned that the man was born blind, Jesus rejects the idea that suffering is punishment. Instead, He teaches that through this man the works of God can be revealed.

During Lent we may encounter suffering, discouragement, or uncertainty. Yet even in those moments, God’s grace can become visible through faith, compassion, perseverance, and love.

The First Reading also reminds us that God sees differently than we do. When Samuel seeks a king, God chooses the least expected — David the shepherd.

Likewise, God calls each of us to reveal His love in the world through acts of service, mercy, courage, and faith.

This Sunday is also Laetare Sunday, a moment of joy in the middle of Lent reminding us that Easter is drawing near.

Let us continue our journey with hope and pray with the humble faith of the healed man:

“Lord, I do believe.”

May Christ open our eyes, strengthen our faith, and guide us always in His light.

— Fr. Skip, Pastor

Parish Announcements & Ministries

Lenten Soup & Sides

The parish community is invited to gather for Lenten Soup & Sides (meatless meal) on Friday, March 20 from 5:30–7:00 PM in the Parish Center. This fellowship evening will be followed by the Stations of the Cross.

Stations of the Cross

Fridays during Lent:

• English: 6:30 PM

• Spanish: 7:30 PM

These services provide a meaningful opportunity for prayer and reflection on Christ’s sacrifice.

Youth and Faith Formation

Faith Formation classes and youth ministry programs continue throughout March and April, including:

• Life Teen sessions

• EDGE middle school formation

• First Communion preparation

• Confirmation sessions

Families are encouraged to stay engaged during this Lenten season.

Healing Prayer Ministry

The Blessed Trinity Healing Prayer Ministry meets Saturday mornings after daily Mass (9:30–11:00 AM) in the Conference Room in Transfiguration Hall.

Parish Staff Lenten Day of Prayer

The Parish Office will close early on Wednesday, March 18 at noon so clergy and staff can participate in the Annual Lenten Day of Prayer and Reflection.

Blood Drive Impact

Thanks to parish participation in the recent OneBlood drive:

• 22 pints of blood were collected

• 18 donors participated

• 66 lives were impacted

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who contributed to this life-saving effort.

Special Parish Initiatives

Our Catholic Appeal 2026

Blessed Trinity’s goal for the Our Catholic Appeal this year is:

$214,947

Participation helps support ministries across the Diocese of Orlando including:

• Catholic education

• Seminarians and clergy formation

• Charitable outreach

• Parish ministries

Fr. Skip invites all parishioners to participate according to their ability.

Events Snapshot

• Faith Formation Classes — Sundays — 8:00 AM–1:00 PM
• Life Teen Sessions — Sunday — 5:00 PM–8:00 PM
• Prayer & Life Workshop — Tuesday — 9:00 AM
• “That Man Is You” Men’s Ministry — Tuesday — 7:00 PM
• Holy Hour & Adoration — Friday — 9:00 AM
• Lenten Soup & Sides — Friday, March 20 — 5:30 PM
• Stations of the Cross (English) — Friday — 6:30 PM
• Stations of the Cross (Spanish) — Friday — 7:30 PM

Sacrificial Giving Summary

Weekend of March 8, 2026

• Church Offertory: $13,023.00
• Online Collection: $8,858.13
• Mail Log: $13,958.00
• Total: $35,839.13

The Master’s Plan

• In-Pew: $625.00
• Online: $286.15
• Total: $911.15

Second Collections in March

• March 15 — Catholic Relief Services
• March 29 — Easter Flowers