Truly, we are creatures of habit. Used to standing for the Gospel Acclamation’s alleluias immediately following the Epistle, congregations at Mass are usually caught by surprise when the Sequence appears instead. Often left without instruction by the lector or cantor, worshippers stand, hesitate, then self-consciously resume their seats.

It’s time to pray for rain. Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas, according to a recent report from the U.S. Drought Monitor. are getting drier by the day. As of April 26, 2022, 45.4% of the U.S. and 54.2% of the lower 48 states are in drought.

It’s that time of year, Easter is finally here! A fresh sense of hope, renewal and springtime is in the air. It is a holy time for Christians as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ and the promise that he will come again. Our churches are filled with prayers, priests, parishioners, and the perfumed scent of the Easter lily.