Fifth Sunday in Lent (Judica)

Looking Back and Looking Forward

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

What a wonderful Sunday we had last week with the rite of First Communion. Seeing these children confess their faith and begin using their new hymnals was a joy. It was also fun to see so many members wearing rose (pink) for Laetare Sunday!

I also want to thank the LWML for hosting a terrific reception to honor these children on the day of their First Communion.

As we look ahead, this week is Judica Sunday (pronounced Yoo-dey-kuh), meaning “Judge me.” Like so many, this Sunday's name comes from the introit, which goes on to pray, “Vindicate me…” This Sunday is a sharp change from the joy we had last week and ushers in what is known as Passiontide.

The final two weeks of Lent are called Passiontide, and the season’s abruptness is meant to focus us on the Passion of Christ. You’ll notice that the crosses are veiled. We’ll begin our service by praying the Litany, and the Gloria Patri is omitted from the introit, as well as Nunc Dimittis. In these ways, the liturgy is our teacher, preparing us to meet the morning of Easter with unbridled joy!

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday,
Pastor Rogness

2025 First Communion Class