There is so much happening this week that it is difficult to choose what thoughts to share. Among the notable days are Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, both which, down here in Louisiana, are overshadowed by Mardi Gras, followed by Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, not to mention the fact that many are still relishing the New Orleans Saints sweet Super Bowl victory.

God’s love is so incredibly overwhelming. In fact God’s greatest gift is love. Pope Benedict’s first encyclical was entitled Deus Caritas Est, “God is Love.” Why would Pope Benedict initiate his papal encyclicals with this theme? He explains, “…I wish in my first Encyclical to speak of the love which God lavishes upon us and which we in turn must share with others…to clarify some essential facts concerning the love which God mysteriously and gratuitously offers to man, together with the intrinsic link between that Love and the reality of human love. I wish to emphasize some basic elements, so as to call forth in the world renewed energy and commitment in the human response to God's love.” What a great thought to remember as we celebrate the love in our life from God with family, friends and community.

President’s Day was originally called Washington's Birthday honoring the accomplishments of the man who has been referred to as "The Father of his Country". He is remembered for his leadership in the founding of the nation, a unifying force and an example for future presidents. We also remember Abraham Lincoln, who courageously stood up for the human rights and upheld the dignity of all people. As Catholic Christians we are called to be leaders in our community, unified under One God and preserving the rights of others. May God bless America.

Of course that leads to another celebration: Mardi Gras. The feasts of all secular feasts! I refer to it as “Party Gras.” Carnival season certainly brings out the “flavors” of the south. This year deems to be more exciting since the Saints have brought home the Lombardi! I have incredible memories of parades in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and New Roads.  The festive atmosphere is contagious, as is the spirit of the celebration. Flying beads, sailing doubloons, waving hands, moving from bar to bar in the French Quarter, joy on all faces.  But of course all this abruptly stops at midnight on Ash Wednesday, where, in New Orleans, uniformed police on horseback ride side by side up and down Bourbon Street clearing the way for the street sweepers and Lent.

Silence. Be still and know I am God. (Psalm 46:10)

Next week, Lent.