In this post I want to share the best Easter gift idea, a gift that’s ETERNAL.
Why?
Several years ago, my dad had a Mass offered for me as a gift.
This gesture started a tradition in my immediate family. We now offer Masses for each other, and our extended family and friends, and give it as a gift for special occasions.
When most people offer a Mass, they offer it for someone who has already died. This is always good and encouraged!
However, it’s possibly more valuable to have a Mass offered for those who are living than those who have died.
“A single Mass offered for oneself during life may be worth more than a thousand celebrated for the same intention after death.” ~ Attributed to St. Anselm of Canterbury
“The Holy Mass would be of greater profit if people had it offered in their lifetime rather than having it celebrated for the relief of their souls after death. … The fruits of the Sacrifice of the Mass are in effect much greater efficacy [sic] during one’s life than after one’s death because the application which is made to those well-disposed among the living is more direct, more certain and more abundant.” ~ Attributed to Pope Benedict XV
What?
An Easter Novena of Traditional Latin Masses according to the 1962 Roman Missal (extraordinary form) will be offered for the salvation and sanctification of all of the families (or persons) enrolled in the Novena.
The nine Masses will be offered through the Octave of Easter.
The suggested donation is $15 for each enrollment which includes an enrollment card sent to each family (or person) enrolled.
The Masses for the Easter Novena will be offered by Fr. Maximilian Mary of Jesus Crucified.
Deadline for enrollment is Palm Sunday (April 2nd) at midnight EST.
How?
It’s simple!
All you have to do is visit the website and fill out the form with your email address, name and the name of the person/family you are enrolling.
A card is included, which the priest fills out himself. You may choose to have the card mailed to you or someone else.
I discovered this a few years ago. Every year, I enroll my immediate family, closest friend, godmother’s family, and the organization where I work. I have the cards mailed directly to them as a gift.
I encourage you to enroll your loved ones in the Easter Novena of Masses!
By doing so, you are helping them (and yourself) in the greatest way possible – whether they realize it or not.
You are also helping a priest to sustain his life as a hermit and continue his work for souls.
Note: Fr. Maximilian Mary’s vocation is that of a solitary hermit in the Diocese of Harrisburg, PA. The donations are not tax deductible. The donations are like giving money to the poor
Having Masses offered for others can be an act of almsgiving for Lent.
Please be sure to complete the enrollments before the deadline – April 2nd at midnight EST.
Thank you and may God reward you!
One Small Rose 