by Br. Bob Roddy, OFM Conv.

Fr. Jim Van Dorn, OFM Conv., Franciscan Retreats and Spirituality Center, Prior Lake, is giving a Lenten Parish Mission for the community of St. John the Baptist in Savage, MN, Sunday, March 8 to Wednesday March 11. The theme for the Lenten Mission is Letting Go-Letting God.

Fr. Jim began the Mission by presiding or preaching at the weekend Sunday Masses. The opening evening of the Mission was centered around the theme of “Dying and Rising.” A major symbol for each evening of the Lenten Mission is a Heritage Edition copy of the St. John’s Bible. During the first evening of the Mission, everyone was invited to come forward and reverence this beautiful copy of the Scriptures.

Group preparing the reverence of the Word.

Monday evening will focus on the theme of “Broken and Blessed,” Tuesday’s theme will be, “Healing Body and Soul,” and Wednesday’s theme will be “Go Forth.” Tuesday evening will feature, “Ragman,” presented by the Youth Group. Each evening begins at 7:00 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to attend. There will be a reception at the end of each evening. Donation baskets are located in the church. St. John the Baptist Church is located at 4625 West 125th Street, Savage, MN 55378. Their phone number is 952-890-9466.

Fr. Jim currently serves as the Guardian of St. Joseph Cupertino Friary in Prior Lake, MN and is the Associate Retreat Director of Franciscan Retreats and Spirituality Center. He has over 35 years experience in retreat and preaching ministry.