The same dynamic appears in this Sunday’s Gospel. The man born blind was well aware of his physical blindness, but how aware was he of his spiritual blindness? Spiritual blindness is far easier to miss than a burned-out headlight. It is no wonder, then, that the Pharisees are outraged at the end of the Gospel when Jesus suggests that they, too, are blind. They could not see what they could not see.

I encourage you to invite the Holy Spirit to help you recollect and notice the sinfulness that pervades your life, sins you may already be aware of and struggle to turn away from, as well as those that remain hidden even to yourself. Please take advantage of the increased opportunities for Reconciliation in the coming weeks.

One of the most fruitful ways to make space for that kind of self-examination is through retreat. I also encourage our parishioners to take advantage of retreat opportunities regularly. These wonderful moments, whether a half-day or an overnight, allow the Lord to speak to us in a calm and peaceful setting, surrounded and encouraged by others who are also seeking greater freedom and authentic worship. Our women’s day retreat, Beloved: The Truth that Sets Us Free, is fast approaching on Saturday, April 18, led by Dominican Sr. Mary Madeline Todd, from Daily Mass through 4:00 PM.

I am grateful to Fr. Lenin Suarez, who celebrated Mass this Sunday at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. As the new Associate Director for Vocations, Fr. Lenin is tasked with accompanying those discerning a call to the priesthood and encouraging our youth and young adults to consider all the vocations to which the Lord calls us. I encourage families to continue open and honest conversations with their children, helping them to appreciate the gifts the Lord may put to use for his greater glory.

My gratitude also goes to those confirmed by Bishop Adam Parker last weekend. Their enthusiasm and eagerness are a sign to me of the great fruits of this parish. I encourage parents who may have been hesitant last year to prayerfully consider whether next year is the right time for your child to be confirmed. We will again be offering Confirmation for children and youth from 3rd grade through high school, and for those who are 9 years of age as of March 2027 and older.

We also have a great need to accompany adults who have not yet been confirmed, and we know many of you are out there, as it can be a hurdle when serving as a Godparent or Sponsor. Please reach out to me at mtriplett@archbalt.org, and we will get you ready for the sacrament. It is not a long or arduous preparation.

On another joyful note, Archbishop Lori is assigning Deacon Dave Ludwikoski to serve at Our Lady of Perpetual Help. He will join Deacons Mike and Roch, who are already a true blessing to this parish. Please look for Deacon Dave at an upcoming Mass and introduce yourself.

Finally, this week we will celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph with a Vigil Mass on Wednesday, March 18, at 5:30 PM, and on Thursday, March 19, at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Thank you to all who join us to worship the Lord on these days.