Easter Sunday is almost here, and we’re excited to celebrate with a special Easter Egg Hunt  hosted by the Knights of Columbus ! After the 10:00 AM Mass , families are invited to gather for a fun-filled egg hunt that will begin 10 minutes after Mass ends . 📅 Event Details: When:  Easter Sunday April 20th, right after the 10:00 AM Mass   Where:  Outside Front of the Church Who:  Open to all children! 🥚 How It Works: To make sure everyone has a great time, the egg hunt will happen in stages: 🐣 Ages 4 & under  will go first. (Around 2 minutes of hunting.) 🐰 Ages 5-7  will follow. (Around 2 minutes of hunting.) 🌸 Ages 8 & up  will go last. If any child doesn’t find many eggs, don’t worry! We have extra eggs set aside to make sure everyone goes home with a treat. 🎉 Come Celebrate With Us! This is a wonderful way for families to come together in the joy of Easter. Join us for Mass, stay for the fun, and let’s make this a memorable Easter Sunday! We look forward to seeing you there! 🐰🌸✝️

“Anyway” - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta Mother Teresa, a saint known for her selfless love and tireless service, often shared these profound words, known as "Anyway."  These verses remind us that following Christ’s call means loving, serving, and giving—no matter the circumstances. People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered. Love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Do good anyway. If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies. Succeed anyway. The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway. People really need help but may attack you if you help them. Help people anyway. Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. Give the best you’ve got anyway. You see, In the final analysis it is between you and God ;it was never between you and them anyway. At the heart of these words is the message of Christ: to love without condition, to serve without seeking recognition, and to give without expecting anything in return. Jesus Himself faced betrayal, opposition, and even death—yet He loved, healed, and forgave anyway. As disciples, we are called to do the same. In our families, workplaces, and communities, we may encounter ingratitude, misunderstanding, and hardship. But God sees our hearts. He blesses our efforts, even when the world does not. So today, love anyway. Do good anyway. Give anyway. And trust that God will use it all for His greater glory. In Christ,Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

40 Days, 40 Ways - A New Look at Lent   As we approach the season of Lent, a time traditionally dedicated to penance, prayer, and fasting, it’s a perfect moment to consider how we can deepen our spiritual practices. Whether you're looking for new ways to reflect on Christ’s journey to the Cross or seeking fresh inspiration for your Lenten observance, 40 Days, 40 Ways: A New Look at Lent by Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio offers a compelling resource that invites both individuals and families to engage with this sacred season in a meaningful way. In 40 Days, 40 Ways , Dr. D’Ambrosio provides a thoughtful daily devotional that takes readers through Lent with a focus on personal growth, spiritual renewal, and a deeper connection to the Church’s rich tradition. Each day offers a reflection on a specific aspect of the Lenten journey, combined with practical suggestions for how to integrate those insights into daily life. What makes this book unique is its accessibility and relevance. Dr. D’Ambrosio blends rich theological insight with practical, down-to-earth advice, making the Lenten season approachable for readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic or just beginning to explore the liturgical practices of the Church, 40 Days, 40 Ways  offers something for everyone. The structure of the book also makes it easy to use in group settings, like parish study groups or family devotions. With its concise reflections and clear applications, it's a perfect guide for those looking to make Lent a time of personal transformation, rather than just a seasonal ritual. Here are just a few reasons why 40 Days, 40 Ways  is a great choice for your Lenten journey this year: •         Daily Reflections : Each of the 40 days of Lent is paired with a reflection that connects the season to everyday life. •         Practical Guidance : Simple yet profound suggestions for how to incorporate prayer, fasting, and almsgiving into your routine. •         Fresh Perspective : Dr. D’Ambrosio provides new insights that encourage readers to look at familiar Lenten practices with a renewed sense of purpose. •         Accessible for All : Written in an easy-to-understand style, making it perfect for individuals, families, or small groups.   As we prepare for this season of prayer and repentance, 40 Days, 40 Ways  offers a resource that can help you grow spiritually, reflect on Christ’s love, and engage more fully with the traditions of Lent. Make this Lent a season of true transformation—one that leads you closer to the heart of Christ. You can read reviews and get more information about the book on Amazon . in Christ,Fr. Jim

Friday Evening Prayer Meeting Dear Brothers and Sisters, I would like to personally invite you to our Friday Evening Prayer Meeting , happening every week at 7:00 PM. We gather in the Youth Ministry room of the Christian Formation Center, located across from Sacred Heart Church in Enumclaw. For those unable to join us in person, we also offer a Zoom option to participate from home. The heart of these gatherings is simple: to seek the Lord’s Presence and invite Him to direct our time together. We spend time in worship, creating space for silence, and then respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit. There is no set agenda—just a desire to be present with the Lord and allow Him to guide us in whatever way He chooses. Whether you are able to come in person or join via Zoom, we would be blessed to have you with us as we welcome the Holy Spirit into our midst and open our hearts to His direction. I look forward to seeing you there. I have a page on my personal website ( www.thegraceofpentecost.com ) that I update regularly as there are some occasions where I am not able to be present and the meeting is virtual only or because of other scheduling conflicts with the leadership, the Prayer Meeting cannot be held. The website will reflect these changes. Please understand that the Prayer Meeting is a huge priority for me so I try and not schedule things on Friday evenings and I usually lead the music for the Prayer Meeting. In Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

Preparing for Lent: Cultivating a Deeper Heart   As we approach the season of Lent, the readings for this 8th Sunday of Ordinary Time invite us to examine our hearts and prepare for a season of renewal. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus offers us an important lesson on the nature of our inner life and how it shapes the way we live and interact with others. The message is simple but profound: what is in our hearts will inevitably be reflected in our words and actions.   In the Gospel (Luke 6:39-45), Jesus speaks about the blind leading the blind and the importance of removing the “plank” from our own eyes before we can help others remove the “speck” from theirs. This metaphor calls us to reflect on the inner obstacles that prevent us from seeing the truth — our own pride, selfishness, or spiritual blindness. Lent is an opportunity to confront these obstacles with humility, seeking God’s grace to see more clearly and live more faithfully.   The passage reminds us that true wisdom comes from within. Jesus teaches that "a good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good," while "an evil person out of the evil treasure produces evil." This is a profound invitation to look inward — to examine what we are allowing to shape and direct our hearts. The words we speak, the choices we make, and the ways we treat others all flow from the state of our hearts. If our hearts are full of love, kindness, and generosity, our actions will reflect those virtues. But if our hearts are filled with anger, judgment, or self-interest, that too will be evident in how we live.   As we prepare for Lent, it is a time to take stock of our inner life and ask ourselves: What is in my heart? What am I nurturing within myself? Am I allowing space for the love and mercy of God to transform me, or am I holding on to old wounds, bitterness, or selfish desires? Lent invites us to take this honest look at our hearts and bring all that we are — our weaknesses, our struggles, and our hopes — before God in prayer.   The first reading from Sirach (27:4-7) speaks to the power of words, reminding us that “the fruit of a tree shows the care it has had.” Just as a tree is known by its fruit, our lives are known by the fruits of our words and actions. This is a timely reminder for us as we prepare to enter into the season of Lent. In the days ahead, let us be mindful of the ways we speak and act — not just externally, but from the deep well of our hearts. Let us seek to cultivate hearts that overflow with goodness, kindness, and compassion, knowing that these are the true fruits of a life lived in Christ.   As we begin our Lenten journey, let us commit to taking time each day to reflect on the state of our hearts. Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we are called to purify ourselves, removing the obstacles that hinder us from living as true disciples of Christ. Just as a gardener carefully tends to the soil to produce a healthy crop, let us tend to our hearts, allowing God’s grace to root out what is harmful and to nurture what is good.   Lent is a time for renewal, for turning away from what weighs us down and turning toward the life-giving love of Christ. As we prepare for this holy season, let us pray for the strength to look honestly at our hearts, to remove what is not of God, and to invite His transforming love to fill us anew. May this Lent be a time of spiritual renewal, where we grow closer to the heart of Christ and bear the fruits of His love in all that we do.   May you have a blessed and transformative Lent, filled with the grace of conversion and renewal.   in Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

The Promise Music has a powerful way of speaking to our hearts, especially when it carries the truth of God's love. One song that beautifully reminds us of His unwavering presence is "The Promise" by The Martins. Its lyrics don’t promise a life without struggles, but they assure us that we never walk alone. A few years ago I was preparing the graphics and video for our live streaming and this song randomly came on and was a huge blessing for me. God never said that we wouldn’t face storms, but He did promise to walk with us through them. He never guaranteed that we wouldn’t feel sorrow, but He promised to be our comfort. Life’s challenges may shake us, but His love remains steadfast. When we feel overwhelmed, let us hold on to the promises of God—He is our refuge, our strength, and our ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). No matter what we face, His grace is enough, His love is unshaken, and His presence is our greatest blessing. May this song and its message remind us daily that, through every trial and triumph, God is with us. That is His promise—one we can always trust. (I can’t reprint the lyrics because of Copyright laws, but you can google “The Promise” by the Martins for the lyrics or go on YouTube to view the performance. ) Praying you will have an incredibly blessed week filled with reminders of God’s faithfulness to us. in Christ,Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

The Beautiful Sacrament of Penance: An Invitation to Healing The sacrament of Penance, often referred to as Reconciliation, is a profound gift that offers us the chance to experience God’s mercy in a tangible way. It is a place of healing, where we bring our struggles, sins, and regrets before God and receive His forgiveness. It is an opportunity for spiritual renewal, and a reminder of God's endless compassion and grace. In the sacrament, we acknowledge our imperfections and seek reconciliation, not only with God but also with the community we are part of. The healing we receive is not just for ourselves, but for the greater Church, as our reconciliation helps mend the bonds within the Body of Christ. One of the most beautiful aspects of Penance is that it can be experienced in two different forms—face-to-face or behind a screen—depending on the individual's comfort level and the specific practices of the parish. Both options offer the same grace, the same absolution, and the same healing. For those who choose the face-to-face  option, this can feel like an opportunity for a more personal and direct encounter with the priest. It can deepen the connection to the sacrament, where one is visible, sharing in the vulnerability of the moment, and allowing for more eye contact and open dialogue. Some may feel that this personal interaction brings a sense of closeness and trust, as they share their hearts in the presence of a compassionate listener. However, for others, the screen option  can be a valuable option for privacy or a sense of anonymity. This option may be particularly helpful for those who feel shy or anxious about confronting a priest directly. The screen allows one to confess in a more concealed manner, focusing solely on the words of the prayer of absolution, while maintaining a sense of reverence. This choice may provide a feeling of security, yet still allows one to experience the full benefits of the sacrament. Both forms are rooted in the same purpose: to restore peace to the soul, to reconcile with God, and to heal the wounds caused by sin. The priest, regardless of whether he is seen or not, represents Christ, who is always present to forgive and heal. The sacrament of Penance is not about judgment, but about mercy. The option of either face-to-face or behind a screen is a reflection of God’s understanding of human nature and our different needs. Some find comfort in being seen, while others find peace in anonymity. Whichever choice you make, remember that the most important part of Penance is the encounter with God’s infinite love, and the grace of a new beginning. In Christ, Fr. James Northrop, Pastor

Join us for a day of reflection, fellowship, and inspiration at the  Parish Family #32 Women's Retreat  at  Sacred Heart Church . 📅  Date:  Saturday, March 1, 2025 ⏰  Time:  8:30 AM - 3:00 PM 📍  Location:  Sacred Heart Parish 💲  Cost:  $20 (Cash/Check at Door) This year’s theme,  "Listening & Loving,"  invites us to come together to deepen our faith, hope, and courage as we embark on our Lenten journey. 🔹  8:30 AM Mass  celebrated by Father Jim 🔹  Inspiring Talks & Reflection 🔹  Creative Journaling Craft 🔹  Delicious Lunch ✨ Please  RSVP by February 23rd  – Call or text  Teresa Cover at 360-367-9534 . Let’s link arms in faith and uplift one another!

The Word Among  Us - A Great Resource   For over thirty years, I’ve been receiving The Word Among Us , and I can say, without a doubt, that it has been an invaluable companion in my spiritual journey. If you’re seeking a way to deepen your relationship with Christ and enrich your prayer life, I highly recommend this devotional. Each issue of The Word Among Us offers daily reflections based on the Mass readings, guiding us to better understand God’s word and how it applies to our lives. It’s an easy, practical way to make Scripture a part of your everyday routine—whether it’s during your morning coffee or in the quiet moments before bed. The reflections are concise, thought-provoking, and always grounded in the realities of life, making them relatable and spiritually enriching. What sets The Word Among Us apart is not only the daily readings, but also its focus on prayer and living the Gospel in daily life. It helps you connect more deeply with the Mass, understand the liturgical seasons, and feel more spiritually prepared for each Sunday’s celebration of the Eucharist. The magazine also offers meditations, prayers, and articles on various aspects of Catholic spirituality, helping us grow in faith and commitment. Having received The Word Among Us for more than three decades, I can attest to how it helps center my day and keeps me focused on Christ. Whether you are new to the devotional or have been reading it for years, there’s always something fresh to inspire your heart. It truly provides the tools to grow closer to God, and to one another, in the midst of our busy lives. I encourage you to check out their website at www.wau.org  and consider subscribing. Let The Word Among Us  be a source of daily strength and spiritual nourishment for you, as it has been for me. in Christ,Fr. Jim Northrop, Pastor

Join us for a Family Storytime:  The Origins of Valentine’s Day! 📅 When: February 13th, 5–6 PM 📍 Where: St. Barbara Church Classrooms (K&L) Come learn, pray, sing, and create as we celebrate the meaning of Valentine’s Day! Geared for ages 4–9, but all children and caregivers are welcome.  (This is not a drop-off event.) No RSVP needed! Questions?  Contact Theresa Kennedy at 253-266-9913.

The Power of Purpose: Jesus’ Mission and Ours In the Gospel of Luke, we find a moment that is both profound and deeply personal. Jesus, having returned to Galilee "in the power of the Spirit," enters his hometown of Nazareth. As was his custom, he goes to the synagogue on the Sabbath, a place of worship, reflection, and teaching. There, he unrolls the scroll of the prophet Isaiah, and reads aloud these words: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,because he has anointed meto bring glad tidings to the poor.He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captivesand recovery of sight to the blind,to let the oppressed go free,and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.” Jesus then sits down and, with a calm yet powerful declaration, says, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” This moment in Nazareth is not just about Jesus revealing his identity; it’s a powerful statement about what the mission of God is all about. Jesus, empowered by the Spirit, is announcing a new reality—a mission that seeks to transform lives, heal brokenness, and bring justice to the oppressed. When Jesus proclaims that the Spirit is upon him, he is not just revealing his own calling, but inviting us into that same mission. For each of us who follow him, his words are not just a declaration of past action but an ongoing call to action. A Mission of Compassion The first part of Jesus’ mission is to bring “glad tidings to the poor.” This doesn’t only mean material poverty but also spiritual poverty—the deep longing for meaning, for purpose, for connection with God. Jesus’ message is one of hope, one that speaks into the emptiness of our lives and offers the fullness of God’s love. He continues: “to proclaim liberty to captives, and recovery of sight to the blind.” How many of us feel imprisoned by our fears, our habits, or our past mistakes? Jesus promises freedom—a freedom that comes from truth, grace, and forgiveness. He also speaks to the spiritual blindness that prevents us from seeing the goodness of God’s work in our lives. When we follow Jesus, our eyes are opened to a new way of seeing—seeing the world with compassion, seeing others with kindness, and seeing ourselves as beloved children of God. A Call to Action Finally, Jesus declares that he has come “to let the oppressed go free” and “to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.” In Jesus, we see the very heart of God—a heart that longs for justice, equality, and peace. His call is a radical invitation to align our lives with God’s kingdom, where the marginalized are given dignity, where peace replaces conflict, and where grace is extended to all. Just as Jesus was sent in the power of the Spirit, so are we. We are not called to sit idly by while suffering and injustice persist. We are called to stand up for those who are hurting, to be agents of healing, and to proclaim the Good News to those who need it most. As we go about our lives, we must remember that Jesus’ mission is not just something he did in the past—it is a living, breathing mission that continues through us. The Spirit of the Lord is upon us too. We, like Jesus, are anointed to bring glad tidings, to proclaim liberty, and to offer sight and freedom to those who need it most. The Mission is Ours This passage reminds us that Jesus’ purpose is now our purpose. It’s a call to be active participants in God’s mission in the world—to bring hope to the hopeless, light to the darkness, and freedom to the oppressed. In every act of kindness, in every moment of service, and in every word of truth we speak, we are fulfilling the very mission Jesus set forth. Let’s reflect today on this calling: How are we being called to fulfill this mission in our own lives? How can we bring God’s love and justice into our communities? And how can we, like Jesus, live “in the power of the Spirit,” trusting that the mission of God is still very much alive, in us and through us? May we answer the call with boldness and faith, knowing that the Spirit of the Lord is upon us, just as it was upon Jesus, to bring transformation and hope to a world that desperately needs it. in Christ, Fr James Northrop, Pastor