From Ashes to New Life
I hope this finds you doing well and thriving this Lenten Season. As I write, I am filled with gratitude and excitement to share some incredible news about the spiritual vibrancy here at the University of Illinois.
I have been on campus now for nearly eight months and I have to say Ash Wednesday was one of the highlights not only of my time back on campus, but of my seven years as a priest. We welcomed nearly 4,000 Catholic Illini to our beautiful chapel to begin the sacred season of Lent, celebrating Mass together and remembering we have a Savior.
Fr. Brokaw greets a student after Ash Wednesday Mass
As beautiful as our full-to-overflowing Masses were, the highlight for me was witnessing the lines of students waiting for and entering into the Sacrament of Reconciliation over the 12 continuous hours we offered confessions. I remarked to a staff member that I would be a priest 10x over for one student to have an opportunity to go to Confession. Miracles were happening. It was a remarkable day and invigorating to see our Catholic Illini trusting Jesus.
This year on campus, we are seeing record numbers of confessions, with students eagerly seeking the mercy of Christ. Our Masses are full, with students actively participating in the liturgy. Small group Bible studies are flourishing, as more students dive into Sacred Scripture together, and intentional discipleship is taking root in profound ways as our Catholic Illini are embracing their call to be on mission. Students are committing to pray in the chapels daily, and we continue to witness a culture where students are on fire with zeal, boldly sharing Jesus Christ and supporting their peers in faith. Our fall and spring Koinonia and silent retreats are facilitating and deepening our students encounter with Jesus while introducing them to authentic community and fellowship.
Your prayers, generosity, and witness have helped lay the foundation for this incredible movement at the University of Illinois. Thank you for being part of this mission! Please continue to keep us in prayer and if you are ever on campus, please stop by. Know that you always have a home here.
May God bless you abundantly this Lenten and Easter Season!
In Christ,
Fr. Lee W. Brokaw
|
|
|
