th 6 Sunday in Ordinary Time 11802 Pacific St. Omaha, NE 68154 www.stroberts.com 402.333.8989 www.stroberts.com St. Robert Bellarmine Confirmation February 14, 2021

Sigmund Lorenzo Almazar Bianca Gemma Hernandez Carlee Rose Murphy Lucia Helena Ambrose Jacob John Hillyer Collin Carlos Newman Meghan Joan Anderson Matthew Joseph Holbrook Lylie Jane Olsen Elyce Mother Ayala Avery Catherine Hopwood Michael Michael O'Malley Joseph Francis Bast Sophia Gianna Howell Charles Michael Osuna Elijah Philip Bessmer Ryan Pio Inda Logan Michael Patrick Sylvia Joan Borgmann Daniel Pio Kenney Grace Mary Patterson Alexander Isidore Bragg Lauren Rose Knipper Emily Marie Patterson Molly Teresa Brown Alexander Alexander Kortright Martin Martin Piotrowski Henry Francis Brueske Kara Teresa Kudlacz Jonah Christopher Potach Samuel Pier Bryant Cecilia Katherine Kwiatek Faith Dymphna Reilly Evelyn Teresa Bullock Isabelle Dymphna Lang Madison Rose Roberts Daniel Anthony Butler Hadley Gianna Little Kyle Christopher Rutherford Sebastian Sebastian Circo Jackson Michael Luethje Emily Valentine Schmit Claire Isabelle Daly Emma Peregrine Lynch Colin Franicis Schneider Matthew Maximilian Daly Natalie Vitus Mainelli Jason Blaise Snow Joslyn Catherine deNourie Ellason Appolonia Manning Audrey Jude Stefan Rylan Francis Desa Lucy Ann Mausbach Pete Peter Steffensmeier Sarah Joan Dickas Melody Joan Mayer Collin Robert Stevens Lily Agatha Dotson Ava Joan McCarthy John Maximilian Stolinski Malia Jude Dunwoody Samantha Teresa McCormack Cody Joseph Swanson Jaycee Agnes Fangmeyer Dylan Christopher McCormack Jack Pio Van Moorleghem Mary Teresa Farnham Riley John McFadden Presley Dymphna Vondra Dylan Bernard Foxhoven Connor Joseph McGarry Allison Kateri Walden Titan John Glassman Luke Paul McGill Edward John Watson Maria Faustina Graves Torrey Rose McManus Elizabeth Edward Weindel Tiergan Peter Haley James James Melton Chloe Teresa Wellwood Owen John Hardy Cailin Bernadette Mullin Catherine Cecilia Youell Meredith Catherine Hedrick Carson Wendelin Mumby William Michael Zachary 2

PARISH OFFICE Parish Penance Service 11802 Pacific St., Omaha, NE 68154 Lent and Holy Week Monday, March 22 – 7:00 p.m. 402-333-8989 2021 Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM Mon -Thurs Holy Thursday, April 1 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM - Friday Mass of the Lord’s Supper – 7:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday Mass Adoration – from end of Mass PARISH OFFICE STAFF Wednesday – February 17 until 10:00 pm 6:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., Noon, 5:30 p.m. Parish Secretary Good Friday, April 2 Barb Borgeson Stations of the Cross Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Fridays during Lent 3:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Parish Receptionist & Bulletin Editor 2:15 p.m. – February 19 - Mar. 19 Mary Sanderson 6:00 p.m. – February 19 - Mar. 26 Easter Vigil, April 3 Business & Financial Director Living Stations 7:30 p.m. Chris Snere

of the Cross Easter Sunday Masses, Pastoral Associate, RCIA, Adult Ministry Friday, March 26 – 2:00 p.m. Debbie Marcil April 4 Sunday, March 28 – 3:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. Stewardship & Development Director Sacrament of (no 12:30 p.m.) and Foundation Executive Director Kelly Vazquez Reconciliation www.stroberts.com Director of Worship and Music Thursdays during Lent 6:00-7:00 p.m. Drew Neneman Saturdays 4:00-5:30 p.m., 7:30-8:30 p.m. Technical Specialist Kim Russell Saturday, Mar. 27 – 10:30 a.m.-Noon, 4:00-5:30 p.m., 7:30-8:30 p.m. Room and Event Specialist No confessions during Holy Week Dennis Podjenski

EDUCATION CONTACTS “The Light Is On” – Confession Times During Lent Thursdays – 6:00-7:00 pm SCHOOL 402-334-1929 11900 Pacific Street Omaha, NE 68154

Principal Jacqueline Reinhart

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Regular Confession Times Saturdays – 4:00-5:30 pm, 7:30-8:30 pm 402-333-1959 11900 Pacific Street Omaha, NE 68154 Saturday, March 27 10:30 am - Noon Director Cheryl Erker 4:00-5:30 pm, 7:30-8:30 pm No confessions during Holy Week!

REED FAMILY Parish Penance Service EARLY LEARNING ACADEMY Monday, March 22 - 7:00 p.m.

402-885-8111 Lent is a special time to experience God’s mercy and healing forgiveness through the 11910 Pacific Street Omaha, NE 68154 Sacrament of Reconciliation. There are no more consoling words than when the priest Director Jamie Flynn says, “I absolve you from your sins...” Come and reconnect with our God who is all com- passionate and forgiving.

YOUTH MINISTRY AND Instructions on “Preparing for the Sacrament of Penance” can be found in the narthex YOUNG ADULT COMMUNITY pamphlet rack. Kate Vazquez AN ACT OF SPIRITUAL COMMUNION Bulletin Deadline: Tuesday by 12:00 PM My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I Send Items to: [email protected] & love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I [email protected] cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually

into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite my- Parish Registrations: self wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen. Register in Parish Office or stroberts.com When unable to physically receive the Eucharist, say the above pray- er for Spiritual Communion. 3 Readings for the Week Mass Intentions February 14, 2021 Monday, February 15, 2021 Sunday: Lv 13:1-2, 44-46/Ps 32:1-2, 5, 11 [7]/1 Cor 10:31—11:1/Mk 1:40-45 6:30 AM †Larry Preister Monday: Gn 4:1-15, 25/Ps 50:1 and 8, 16bc-17, 20-21 [14a]/Mk 8:11-13 8:30 AM †Fr. Cliff Stevens Tuesday: Gn 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10/Ps 29:1a and 2, 3ac-4, 3b and 9c-10 [11b]/Mk 5:30 PM †Rich & Janet Fleissner 8:14-21 Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Wednesday: Jl 2:12-18/Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17 [cf. 3a]/2 Cor 5:20— 6:30 AM †Frances Vance 6:2/ 8:30 AM †Tom Peters Mt 6:1-6, 16-18 Anniversary Thursday: Dt 30:15-20/Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6 [Ps 40:5a]/Lk 9:22-25 Unit Mass 5:30 PM †Joseph Holewinski Friday: Is 58:1-9a/Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19 [19b]/Mt 9:14-15

Saturday: Is 58:9b-14/Ps 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6 [11ab]/Lk 5:27-32 Wednesday, February 17, 2021 Next Sunday: Gn 9:8-15/Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 [cf. 10]/1 Pt 3:18-22/Mk 1:12-1 Ash Wednesday 6:30 AM †James & Elizabeth Carey 8:30 AM †Simon Ommachen Pray for Our Sick Anniversary All School Mass KT, Susan Sampson, Maggie L., Betty G., Mary Mornin, Joe Gollobit, Randy 12:00 PM †Arnold Friend Figura, Christina McGlynn, Joe Scott, Jim C., Suzanne D. Horbach, A. Rin- 5:30 PM †Michelle Seminara done, Karen B., Ivan B., Larry Wee, Anthony, Duane Chamberlain, Carolyn Kresl, Vince Stanesick, Will Steinauer, Theresa U., Robert Meza, Kathy Thursday, February 18, 2021 Mernah, Jenny Dervin, Barbara Frans, Mike Dolezal, LeRoy Kracl, Dawn, Jeff 6:30 AM †Bill Fitzgerald Schmidt, Joe Pensick, Kathy Morris, Tim Pugh, Nick Camero, Tom Smith, Mary 8:30 AM St. Joseph Kay Johnston, Lisa Kirke, Doug Henn, Marilyn Stockdale, Kay, Angela, Bill In Thanksgiving Pritchard, Michael, RC, Jodi Crone, Vicki Kearney, Bob Burns, Marc D., Nadine Unit School Mass Peatrowsky, Mary Huliska, Nancy Thibodeau, Sara S., Sammy Strawn, Pat 5:30 PM †Leonard Karasek Ramaekers, Kathy Stover, Bonnie Sattler, TDP, Anna M., Denise S., Greg, Anniversary Annette Kelleher, Dee Fell, Midge Stanley, Cheryl Galvin, Nick Murphy, Friday, February 19, 2021 Carolyn Burns, Jennifer Campbell, Gerard Owens, and everyone in need of our 6:30 AM †Isaac Jiron prayers. Call the Parish Office 402-333-8989 by Tuesday at noon to place 8:30 AM †Delores Bruggeman names on the prayer list for the following Sunday. Unit Mass 5:30 PM †Fr. Christopher Roberts

Our Deceased Saturday, February 20, 2021 8:30 AM †JoAnn Watson Philip Joannes, husband of Barb Joannes 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Confessions Ray Sluyter, father of Mike Sluyter 1st Sunday of Lent 5:30 PM †Paul & Therese Welge 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Confessions

Sunday, February 21, 2021 7:00 AM †Mary Ann Everitt 8:00 AM †Frank Walsh Anniversary 9:30 AM †Dorothy Gaul 11:00 AM †Sam Vasta II 12:30 PM People of St. Robert’s

Liturgical Colors

White - JOY - Christmas, Easter, Mary, Saints Red - LOVE - The Passion, Holy Spirit, Martyrs Green - HOPE - Ordinary Time Purple - HUMILITY - Advent, Lent Rose - JOY - Gaudete, Laetare Sundays 4 A Word... Religious Education

Mercy Is Never Denied th February 17 is Ash Wednesday. We were casually chatting after Mass and en- Evening Mass starts at 5:30 p.m. Lent begins. joying the inclement weather outside. I often saw her at daily Mass but did not know her well. We were discussing the day’s gospel th about the parable of the Prodigal Son. I rhetori- February 17 Sacrament classes start at 6:00 p.m. rd cally asked if there was ever a more profound March 3 Family Religious Education starts at 6:00 p.m. Mainelli Center parable, and by extension, “Is there a limit to March 9th 2nd Grade Parent Meeting God’s mercy?” I seemed to have triggered a movement in the Force, or perhaps it was a If you are a new family or would like to get more info about our NEW Family Holy Spirit moment. She answered rather RE program, please email Cheryl Erker at [email protected] forcefully…

Parables were certainly spoken for a specific audience but they always have a much broader School News pertinence that speaks to us today. The para- ble of the Prodigal Son is one of the best. It is a beautiful image of the father watching and wait- ing for the return of his wayward son, and then when he finally sees him, rushing out to em- brace him—it’s a profound insight into the heart of our Father in heaven. The returning son has barely begun to express his sorrow and repent- ance while his father is already restoring him to the household. Mercy has been unleashed.

But I think there is an even greater love ex- pressed in the parable of the Lost Sheep. The Shepherd does not wait for the lost one to “come to his senses” and make his way back. The divine Shepherd lays aside his glory and seeks for the one who is lost. It does not matter if the sheep has lost its way because of naivete or sin or an unjust past—the Shepherd goes forth relentlessly in a divine search-and-rescue mission. Once again, our awesome students, teachers, and parishioners have made our annual Catholic Schools Week a success! We need to know the love of God and we need to love God wildly for the true transformation to take place. When it is said that God is all- Young Adult Community merciful, it means that everything He does works for our redemption, reconciliation, reha- What is St. Robert Bellarmine Young Adult Community? YAC is a group with bilitation, and conversion. He wants to remedi- intentional foundations of fostering the Catholic faith and building community ate rather than punish. He wants to purify ra- in young adult life. Check out the St. Robert’s website for our Facebook ther than condemn. If we insist on our own way link for the latest news and events. (as we often do), He is patient and forbearing toward our rebellion, knowing that only in Him Our Women's Bible Study is meeting monthly via zoom. Please email strob- will we ever find peace and healing. [email protected] if you are interested in participating!

A little surprised at her own forthrightness, she Stay tuned for Young Adult Community events, hopefully in Spring or Summer concluded: Whether we believe in Him or not, 2021! Stay well! God is always at work deep within each of us. Invitations, opportunities, serendipitous en- counters, and whispers of direction abound. Youth Ministry God is in love with His creation. A favorite quote from St. John Henry Newman goes to SRB-YG Meetings! All high schoolers are welcome to join us on the heart of the issue: “Jesus wept, not mere- Wednesdays from 7:30pm-9:30pm in the back circle in the north parking lot. ly from the deep thoughts of his under- Weather location is the Community Room. Follow us on Facebook (St. Robert standing but from spontaneous tenderness, Bellarmine-Youth) & Instagram (@srbyouth) to see up to date info & events! from the goodness and mercy, the encom- passing loving-kindness and exuberant af- fection of the Son of God for his own work, SAVE THE DATE! the race of man.” Lenten pizza pick up for the Youth Group is on Friday, March 12th. 5

Parish Information SEDER MEAL

The Ladies Guild is looking for a volunteer to chair the annu- Guild al Seder Meal on Thursday, April 1st. If you are interested in helping to plan this wonderful event, please contact ~ BLOOD DRIVE Sarah Morey [email protected] or Tracie Youell [email protected] The last 5 Blood Drives were a sellout. Let’s do it again! The next St Robert’s Blood Drive is on Sun., March CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS 7, from 7:30am-1:30pm in the Mainelli Center with plenty of space for appropriate social distancing & 6 ft. spaces. To In honor of the Year of St. Joseph, the Catholic schedule a donation, visit www.redcrossblood.org (search Daughters of St. Robert’s have purchased and sponsor code STROBERT) or contact Marie Kozel via text/ donated a statue of St. Joseph for the Parish Li- phone at 402-680-0182. Walk in donors will be accepted the brary. Stop by the library soon to see this beauti- day of the drive if the drive does not fill. ful statue.

CIRCLE 3 ASHES, STATIONS, AND PALMS Been There Done That - Due to Covid, we are canceling our EPS benefit brunch in March. Want to still help? Please On Ash Wednesday, the priest will bless the Ashes at the send your check made out to EPS to Rose Wilson, 1032 S. conventional time, and then after a moment of quiet meditation, 112th Plz., Omaha, NE 68154. Thanks for your generosity! the Mass will continue. Ashes will not be distributed as in the past. Questions - Call Kathryn 402-333-2871. Following Mass, the Ashes will be available for parishioners to mark on themselves or take home. hand sanitizer and hand PRO LIFE 40 DAYS FOR LIFE wipes will be available. Parishioners will sanitize their hands immediately before accessing the Ashes. 40 Days for Life Spring 2021 Campaign runs February 17th through March 28th. Please join SRB parishioners on 2/19 Parishioners may take Ashes from the Sanctuary to distribute and/or 3/22 to pray for the unborn. Each day dur- to loved ones and must bring their own re-sealable container or ing 40 Days for Life, individuals, churches, families & groups bag. Use the scoop provided to obtain a personal portion of are asked to join together in prayer for a specific request so Ashes, being aware that a very small amount of ashes goes a very long way. the entire Body of Christ can unite around a common fo- cus. People of faith are also invited to fast through- Stations of the Cross booklets will be available in the Nar- out 40 Days for Life. We believe that when God's people fast thex throughout Lent for you to take and keep. They are free to with a broken, repentant & contrite spirit, our heavenly Fa- all but a suggested donation of $5 is appreciated. ther will hear from heaven and heal our lives, our churches, our communities, our nation, & our world. The visible, public Stations of the Cross are at 2:15pm & 6:00pm each Friday dur- centerpiece of 40 Days for Life is a focused, 40-day, non- ing Lent. The 2:15 Stations will have music and will be attended by a greatly reduced population of students to promote distanc- stop, round-the-clock prayer vigil outside a single Planned ing. On March 26th and Palm Sunday, March 28th, the Youth Parenthood center or other abortion facility in your commu- Community will present or stream the live Stations of the Cross nity. It’s a peaceful & educational presence. People who in accordance with the current distancing protocols at that time. witness during this 24-hour-a-day presence send a powerful message to the community about the tragic reality of abor- Check the Lent and Holy Week tabs at stroberts.com under the tion. It also serves as a call to repentance for workers at the worship heading to utilize some great material we are making available to you throughout the season. abortion center & those who patronize the facility. Sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050B49A5AE2A1- Drew Neneman, Worship Director, will update music reflections 40days7 or email [email protected] weekly on the website and on Facebook each Lenten Thursday until Easter. Other materials will be available for you in the Nar- thex throughout the season while supplies last. GIRLS SCOUT COOKIES ARE HERE! On Palm Sunday, Masses will continue as usual, and Palms will be distributed in the traditional way. Blessed palms This weekend, purchase your Girl Scout cookies in the nar- will be available starting at 3pm the afternoon of March 27th. A thex after Masses. We also deliver! To place your order - Palm Blessing and Scripture ceremony will be streamed just [email protected] or call Debby 816-876-9589. before. Palms will remain available in the Narthex while sup- Cash, check, or contact free delivery with Venmo. Each box plies last. We look forward to having a blessed and reflective is $4.00. There are many delicious varieties and they freeze Lent with you. well. ?s Drew Neneman [email protected], Deacon Mi- Thanks for supporting your SRB Girl Scouts! chael Fletcher [email protected] or 402-333-8989. 6

LENT 2021 RESOURCES Pastoral Ministry

Matthew Kelly https:// www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent/best-lent- RCIA ever.html

Wed., Feb. 17 - Ash Wednesday, Journey to Easter w/Fr. Stillmunks Fr. Andy Alexander https:// onlineministries.creighton.edu/ Sun., Feb. 21 - Rite of Sending & Election, 9:30am Mass. Brunch in MC after CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/ Wed., Feb. 24 - Jesus Christ - Amazed and Afraid DVD in Mainelli Center Wed., March 3 - Sacraments, Part 2 Marriage, Holy Orders, Reconciliation, & Bishop Robert Barron https:// Anointing www.lentreflections.com/ Questions, contact Debbie Marcil at 402-333-8989/[email protected]. LENTEN MORNING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES OF REFLECTION If you are interested in volunteering for our Funeral Ministry Team, Wedding Min- Please join us for A Lenten Morning of istry Team, or Bereavement Ministry, please contact Debbie Marcil at Reflection presented by Fr. Andy Al- [email protected]. Both ministries volunteer the day of the funeral or wed- exander, SJ on Saturday, February ding. 20th, from 9 AM-10:30 AM. This is a vir- tual event and you will receive your Funeral Ministry – assist families and guests at the funeral, work with lectors and those bringing up gifts, set up and clean up. zoom link upon registration. This a free event, donations are welcome and ap- Wedding Ministry – set up and clean up, assist getting wedding party organized preciated. Please register for this event before wedding, work with lectors and those bringing up gifts, make sure wedding at www.ivcusa.org/Omaha. If you have party is ready to go. questions, please contact Anne Mollner at [email protected]. Presented by Bereavement Ministry – volunteer from home! Write one note a month to some- Ignatian Volunteer Corps of Omaha. one who has just lost a loved one from our parish. Four times a year, you will send a note along with a book (provided from St. Robert’s). This ministry is beautiful SAFE ENVIRONMENT and only takes 5 – 10 minutes a month!

All parishioners/parents who volunteer with children in our parish or school are required by the Archdiocese of Omaha to be Safe Environment Certified. Any- one not certified will NOT be able to vol- unteer at the parish or school. Upcoming scheduled trainings at St. Robert’s in the Mainelli Ctr. Tues., March 2nd, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Mon., April 12th, 4:00pm-6:00pm ?s ~Debbie [email protected]/402-333-8989.

WOW!

Thank you, Dave and Tim, for manag- ing the snow. It’s been a lot of work! 7 Weekly Offering Weekly Calendar February 7th, 2021 See the calendar online at https://www.stroberts.com/ for St. Robert Bellarmine Weekly Offertory 2/7/2021 the latest information. Budgeted for the week $ 51,786 Monday, February 15, 2021 Sunday Envelopes Received $ 27,389 6:30 p.m. Boy Scouts, CAF On-line Giving* $ 18,281 7:00 p.m. Grief Share Support Group, Mainelli Center Weekly Variance positive or (negative) $ (6,116) Budgeted Year-To-Date (YTD) $ 1,638,931 Tuesday, February 16, 2021 8:30 a.m. Mater Filius, MR3 YTD Received $ 1,593,754 5:30 p.m. Cub Scouts, MR1, CR, CAF YTD variance positive or (negative) $ (45,176) 6:00 p.m. Team Omaha Taekwondo, MR3 *Includes monthly ACH of $2,420 Wednesday, February 17, 2021 Archbishop’s Annual Appeal 9:00 a.m. Ladies Book Club, CR The Archbishop’s Annual Appeal is currently underway. We 1:30 p.m. Book Club, CR have committed $216,859 or 96.8% of our $223,950 goal. 5:30 p.m. Youth Group, CR Please help St. Robert’s reach our goal! 6:00 p.m. Religious Ed 6:30 p.m. RCIA, Mainelli Center GIVE TAX EFFICIENTLY!* Thursday, February 18, 2021 Qualified charitable IRA Distribution 9:00 a.m. Moms of Faith, CR Appreciated Stock 9:00 a.m. Bible Study, MR1 6:00 p.m. Team Omaha Taekwondo, MR3 *consult your tax professional 7:00 p.m. Bible Study, MR1 Call/email Chris Snere in the Business Office with questions 7:00 p.m. St. Wenc Bible Studies, MR2 [email protected] 402-333-8989 7:30 p.m. AA Meeting, MR3

Friday, February 19, 2021 2:15 p.m. Stations of the Cross, CH CONSIDER ONLINE GIVING! 6:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross, CH

Tired of writing checks? Donate easily online through Saturday, February 20, 2021 the Parish website https://www.stroberts.com/ 7:30 a.m. Bible Study, CR & MR3 and click on the large green Online Giving button on the 1:00 p.m. Robotics, CAF right side of the home page. In a few easy steps you can set up automatic recurring contributions or make a one-time Sunday, February 21, 2021 donation to a special cause. Need help? Chris can do this 10:30 p.m. RCIA Brunch, MC for you! 12:00 p.m. Girl Scouts, CAF Please click on the link and get this done now! 1:00 p.m. Mergan Baptism Party, CR https://www.myowngiving.com/Default.aspx?cid=1100 1:00 p.m. Bolmeier Baptism Party, MR3

For more information, please contact Chris Snere at the Parish Office ~ [email protected] or 402-333-8989.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS! Public Mass started back up again May 4th, but we understand some people will We have many parishioners and surrounding businesses still want to utilize the Drive and Tithe for who support St. Robert Bellarmine Parish through their ad- the time being. Drive and Tithe is now “Power Hour” from vertising in the Sunday bulletin. Please support these or- 10AM-11AM at the cafeteria west entrance to try and ganizations who have been good stewards for St. Robert’s avoid regular Mass traffic. Stay well and we are very excit- over the years. https://www.stroberts.com/news/ ed to see you in the pews again! bulletin/2126-2020-bulletin-advertisers/file 8

DAILY PRAYER THIS WEEK SAINT OF THE DAY

This is a great week to pray for simplicity, and St. Valentine Each year on February 14, we peruse the all the graces that flow from this gift. Simplicity store shelves for the perfect gift or card for a doesn't mean being simple minded or naive. It loved one. According to Hallmark, more than means being like the little children Jesus 163 million cards—not including packaged called us to imitate and the little children he kids’ valentines—are exchanged. And it’s not embraced. just an American phenomenon. Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, It is easy to take few moments each morning France, Australia, Italy and Denmark. this week to ask for the graces that we need to look into our busy calendars, and into our very full hearts, and find the But why? How did this holiday of love and romance originate areas that need greater simplicity. Of course, part of that and, more importantly, how did Saint Valentine become in- prayer comes out of a desire to be less complicated, to be volved? The answers to those questions are not easy ones. Valentine’s Day is a holiday shrouded in mystery and legend. less stressed by conflict and to not be pulled in too many directions. The origins of Saint Valentine’s Day lie in the ancient Roman fertility festival Lupercalia, which was celebrated on February Another level of that prayer is that we might be more trust- 15. During the festival, young women would place their names ing, more vulnerable and more dependent upon God. This is in a large urn. to ask for that great grace of living a life that comes together - with the various parts in harmony with each other, i.e., the The young men would draw a name from the urn and then be me that goes to church on Sunday is the same me that inter- romantically linked with that young woman for the following acts with my family and the me that goes to work each day. year. Still other legends cite the fact that February 14 marked the date when birds began mating. A key focus, as we begin Lent is to remember that this is a season, not so much about what acts we will do for God, but Will the Real Saint Valentine Please Stand Up? The practice how we can be open to what God wants to give us. If we of writing letters has been around for a long time. In fact, the make sacrifices, it will be in service of getting rid of what Bible is filled with letters—to the Romans, the Corinthians, Tim- othy, among others. gets in the way of our openness and trust in God, and add- ing what can help me hear and receive what is being offered Letters can be used to inform, scold, praise, entertain or en- me. dear. The U.S. bishops write letters to presidents, policymakers

and others to help make the Church teachings and positions Each of us will find ways to ask for these graces according known. Individual bishops write letters, too, to their people to to our own circumstances. Some of us may be able to set inform and encourage them. People write letters to members of time aside every day to pray. But, even those of us who Congress to weigh in on certain legislative issues. When a net- can't seem to find that time can choose to focus our con- work announces it will be canceling a popular television pro- sciousness enough to gather our interior movements togeth- gram, what is often the first course of action? A letter-writing er in ongoing brief, but very meaningful, conversations with campaign. our Lord. If our days can begin with naming the desire that will give shape to our thoughts and desires throughout the Letters can also serve as lifelines for loved ones separated by day, then that discipline will pay off richly in our ability to re- distance, war, employment and many other circumstances. Or connect to that desire when we are in the midst of doing al- they can help bridge a gap between people who may be most anything. It starts to become easy to recall what we fighting or are estranged, and just aren’t ready to speak face-to -face. asked the Lord for in just 30 or 40 seconds in the morning. While walking somewhere or while doing almost anything Spread a Little Love Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportuni- else that used to just be filled with worry or anxiety or "day ty to let the people in your life know how much you love and dreaming," we can now talk with our Lord about this event or care about them. Here are some ways you can express your that conflict, this person or that habit of mine. Each brief, love on this special day: "background" encounter with our Lord will help us repeat our desire to be made more simple. "Whoever does not accept Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out your kids’ sand- wiches for lunch. Draw hearts or place heart stickers on their the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” lunch bags. And don’t forget to add a note telling them how Isaiah 58 - from Friday and Saturday - offers a rich reflection much you love them and why. You can also do the same thing on the kind of fasting our Lord desires of us. for your husband or wife.

One resource that can be helpful is Creighton's Praying Lent Have the kids help you bake heart-shaped cookies and deliver pages which offer daily prayers during Lent, reflections on them to grandparents, neighbors, residents of a nursing home or anyone else you think might enjoy receiving a treat. preparing for Lent, entering into it at a deeper level in our busy lives, looking at marriage during Lent, helping our chil- Focus on the true meaning of Valentine’s Day. Aside from the dren with this season and even ideas about "Cooking Lent." cards, gifts, etc., the purpose of the day is to let those we care Praying Lent is a part of Creighton's Online Ministries. about know we love them. This Valentine’s Day, tell family

members and friends just how much they truly mean to you. onllineministries.creighton.edu fransiscanmedia.org 9

A HOMILY WITH FR. MIKE ECKLEY VOCATIONS ‘31’ CLUB These members offer their prayers for Vocations on the days indicated. Please Join us for 5:30 Mass and then a presentation with Fr. Mike Eckley – pray for an increase in vocations. answering Pope Francis' call to action for the environment. Spend a th wonderful evening with an amazing priest! Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m. 15th Shirley Dunlap livestreamed at stroberts.com. Anne Mahoney Kit Merkel

th BLESSING FOR NEW MOMS 16 Patti Maggio Margie McCarty st Lou Scott Blessing for expectant mothers and their families is next weekend, February 21 , after all Sunday Masses. Please feel free to come forward after Mass to receive 17th Peg Sigler the blessing. Dee Studt

Community Information 18th Kirk & Monica Johnson Wilma Smith LOVE ED Nancy Kuhl

th Register now for the program which equips parents to have life-changing conversa- 19 Alice Pumilia tions with their kids about God's plan for love and life… LoveEd! Space is limited! Mary Ann Horkan

Register at www.stroberts.com Deadline: February 20. LoveEd is a program that 20th Marge Kozal helps empower parents to teach both the theology and science of human sexuality Janice Kowski within the context of God's plan for love and life. It’s a parent-guided, age- appropriate, gender-specific program that teaches children about God's plan for life, 21st Jim Hyland love, sexuality and purity. There is a parent-only session on Saturday, February 27, from 3 to 5 p.m. for first time attendees. ~ 31 CLUB ~ A Unique Club ~

No Rules/Meetings/Fees The parent-child sessions are as follows: Choose one day in the month to offer your --Girls both Level I and Level II is Saturday, March 6, 2021 from 3 to 5 p.m. prayers for vocations. To become a mem- --Boys both Level I and Level II is Saturday, March 13, 2021 from 3 to 5 p.m. ber, call MaryAnn 402-215-4708.

Questions: contact Jenni Owens [email protected] or Cheryl Erker [email protected]

PRO LIFE RADIO FERTILITY CARE INTRODUCTORY SESSION Parishioner Cullen Herout hosts Ready Are you looking for an alternative to putting hormones into your body? You can learn To Stand: Pro-Life Radio every Satur- the Creighton Model Fertility Care System (formerly known as natural family plan- day at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday at 5:30 ning) at St. Robert’s. Whether you are a new user or just need a refresher class you p.m. on Spirit Catholic Radio. For more can take a class at the parish. information ~

The Creighton Model is a method of true family planning. It can be used to avoid or //www.spiritcatholicradio.com/ achieve pregnancy. The Creighton Model is also extremely helpful for women with readytostand. reproductive problems like infertility & repetitive miscarriages. An intro session will be held Monday, February 22nd, from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in Meeting Room 1. Cost is $35. Contact Tracie Youell [email protected] or 402- 889-9250 to register or for more information. MOMS OF FAITH Calling all moms! Do you need a break MASS FOR VOCATIONS from all the craziness and some good Catholic fellowship? Moms of Faith Mass for Vocations at St. Columbkille Monday, February 15th at 5:30 p.m. supports women living out their voca- tion of Catholic motherhood through The Serra Club of West Omaha invites you to join us for Holy Mass on Mon., Feb. prayer, study, and fellowship. Join us 15, at 5:30pm at St. Columbkille Catholic Church (200 E. 6th Street) to pray for an Thursdays from 9:30-11:00am in the increase in vocations to the priesthood & consecrated religious life within the Archdi- Community Room. We will be studying ocese of Omaha. Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Frank Baumert. After Mass, we “Better Together“ from “Take Up & invite you to attend our brief Meeting & Mixer. Rev. David Reeson will join us as our Read” ministry. Childcare available if speaker who will share with us his vocation story & call to serve as a priest. Find out how you can engage in helping to build the Church locally. Meet our dedicated Ser- requested. For more info/?s contact ~ ra members & enjoy light refreshments with us. For questions, contact John Lingo, Tracie Youell 402-889-9250 or Serra VP, 402-290-4670 or [email protected]. [email protected]. 10 SUNDAY SCHEDULE Liturgical Ministers - Check online for schedules. www.rotundasoftware.com/ministry/strobertsomaha

Feb. 20/21, 5:30 p.m. 7:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 2021

Priest Fr. Mark Fr. Mark Fr. Mark Fr. Rob Fr. Rob Fr. Rob Deacon D Petersen M Fletcher J Laird

Altar M Mullen Volunteers Volunteers A Schmidt T Forbes N Slater Servers J Snow needed needed M Schmidt Volunteers Volunteers Volunteer needed C Schneider-cr needed needed Lectors T Harmon R Reed L Sambol B Flynn P Bataillon T Sobczyk Volunteer needed B Schmidt Volunteer needed

EMHC Volunteers B Farmer D Lenhoff M Kuhse J Brannen B Collins needed T Farmer D Sambol M Kuhse M Brannen M Pavich K Magiera Volunteers S Schmidt J Gilsdorf D Weiler J Underriner needed K Wolf M Janda Volunteers Volunteers G Youell R Wolfe needed needed T Youell Volunteer needed

Ushers Tom Marty Tom Roy George Rich (Captains) McGuire Thieman Bartholet Kuncl Liebentritt McWilliams Rosary (Glorious) Franco Russell Liebentritt

Montclair: Head Usher: Chris Wheeler PARKING LOT SECURITY PATROL Saturday, February 20 5:15 p.m. until lot empties Sunday, February 21 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m. until lot empties

EASTERN NEBRASKA OFFICE ON AGING MEALS ON WHEELS ~ JAY 402.444.6766 ~ DRIVERS ALWAYS NEEDED

Feb. 15 - Feb. 19 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

President’s Day Sam DeMaria East Route 104 Open Tiffany Harvat Jeri Petersen No delivery FDR Group President’s Day FDR West Route 105 Ashley DeGlopper Dan Carney Caroline Berthelsen No delivery Diane Snider