Mary Mother of Mankind Church – 25 Fourth Street North Providence, RI 02911

From Father Varghese’s Desk

Among the three spiritual practices encouraged by the Church during Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—fasting often proves to be the most challenging. Living in a land of abundance, we seldom think about fasting, and when we do, we often struggle to embrace it. Yet, fasting, whether from food, television, social media, or other comforts—has profound spiritual benefits. Those who practice fasting experience a deep sense of peace and strength in their daily lives, helping them to live virtuously and resist temptation. Why is this so? A few key reasons stand out:

Fasting is an act of penance. By willingly giving up good things, we express our sorrow for sin and grow in humility. This sincere offering is deeply pleasing to God.
Fasting shifts our focus from worldly comforts to God. It reminds us that true joy is not found in material things, but in God alone. When we turn our hearts toward Him, we draw upon His love and strength.
Fasting cultivates self-discipline. It strengthens our ability to make sacrifices, preparing us for the greater challenges and acts of self-denial we will encounter in life.
Fasting fosters solidarity with the poor. By voluntarily embracing sacrifice, we unite ourselves with those who go without, recognizing Christ in them and growing in compassion. While fasting may not come easily, it is a powerful means of spiritual renewal. I encourage you to fast from something each day this Lent—you will be amazed at the grace and transformation it brings! Lenten Devotions
Stations of the Cross with Benediction will be held on Fridays at 7:00 PM.
Rice Bowls are available at the church doors, please take one and fill them with offerings for the poor. Scripture tells us that God abundantly blesses those who give generously to those in need. Daily Mass continues at 8:00 AM, Monday through Thursday and Friday at 7AM. There is no better way to begin your day than by receiving the Eucharist, just ask any of our regular daily Mass-goers!

May this holy season of Lent bring you peace, renewal, and a deeper relationship with Christ.

Have a Good Week and God Bless,

Father Varghese

Parish News & Events

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS Led by Don and Pat Turbitt First couple to receive the Lumen Gentium Award Mary Mother of Mankind 25 Fourth Street, North Providence. R.I. Each Thursday will begin at 7:00 pm 3/20/25 Salvation 3/27/25 The New Life 4/3/25 Receiving God's Gift 4/10/25 Pray for the ...
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MEN OF ST. JOSEPH

The Men of St. Joseph meet every 1st Monday of the month at 7pm in the parish Hall. The next meeting is Monday, April 7th ...

Would you like to remember a loved one on a particular date?

Please contact the Parish office at 401-231-3542 or ParishSecretary@mmmri.org to schedule. Weekend Masses: $25 donation Weekday Masses: $15 donation ...

Readings for the Week – March 16, 2025

Monday Dn 9:4b-10 Ps 79:8, 9, 11 and 13 Lk 6:36-38 Tuesday Is 1:10, 16-20 Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23 Mt 23:1-12 Wednesday 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16 Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29 Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22 Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a or Lk 2:41-51a Thursday Jer 17:5-10 Ps ...
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Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Monday, March 17, 2025 12noon—7pm ...

NOT RECEIVING YOUR ENVELOPES?

Please contact the Parish Office at 401-231-3542 if you did not receive your offertory envelopes. ...

SVdP MMM Conference Fundraiser

SVdP MMM Conference is having a fundraiser at Chelo’s in Smithfield on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. If you present one of the flyers when you dine in or pick up take out, we will receive 10% of the total, excluding tips and tax. The flyer that will be inserted into ...
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QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK

Adults: Do you see the world as basically evil, or as good? What difference does this make in the way you live? Children: Where do you see goodness in God’s world? ...

SUNDAY SMILE

I saw a cartoon on this notion recently. “A woman had bought a new dress which was very expensive. Her husband asked why she had been so extravagant. She replied, “The Devil made me do it.” “Well,” the husband asked, “Why didn’t you say, ‘Get thee behind me Satan!'” “I ...
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Catholic Charity Appeal

The 2025 Catholic Charity Appeal has officially begun. This year’s theme, “Trust in Providence,” is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and the trust he has placed in us to serve others. Our parish goal remains the same as last year, with an overall diocesan goal of $7.5 million. As ...
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