The increase in the number of catechumens and candidates entering the Church in the Diocese of Colorado Springs matches the same trend seen in other dioceses and archdioceses throughout the United States and the world.

IMPORTANT LENTEN AND EASTER DATES FOR 2026

• Ash Wednesday: Feb. 18
• The Annunciation: March 25
• Palm Sunday: March 29
• Holy Thursday: April 2
• Good Friday: April 3
• Holy Saturday: April 4
• Easter Sunday: April 5
• Divine Mercy Sunday: April 12
• Ascension: May 17
• Pentecost: May 24

AURORA. Father John Auer, who served as pastor at several parishes in the Diocese of Colorado Springs before his retirement in 2016, died Nov. 20 at age 79. Funeral arrangements are as follows:

Dec. 4, 5-6 p.m.: Vigil, St. Mary’s Cathedral

Dec. 5, 10 a.m.: Mass of Christian Burial, St. Mary’s Cathedral

Dec. 9, 11 a.m.: Interment at Evergreen Cemetery, Colorado Springs (priest section)

See a list of parish Advent activities and Christmas Masses and more.

Upcoming Holy Days of Obligation 

• Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mon., Dec. 8
• Christmas Day, Thurs., Dec. 25
• Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, Thurs., Jan. 1, 2026

SALIDA. “A woman of valor, who can find?” Here at St. Joseph Parish in Salida, the name that comes to mind is our beloved office and business manager of 40 years, Mary Guccione McGlasson. She has grown from a teenager to a savvy professional with a heart full of love. On Aug. 2, our parish honored Mary with a “workiversary” celebration to express our gratitude for her commitment, dedication, and the unique brand of joy she brings to each of us. The theme for the evening became, “What’s the best thing about Mary?”