Detroit — Reading the entire Bible from the first chapter of Genesis to the last chapter of Revelation is one of the ways Fr. Joe Gembala is keeping a holy Lent this year.

“I have a Bible that is divided into daily portions so it can be read in a year, but I figure I’ll have 36 days of Bible reading within the 40 days of Lent, so I’ll have to average about 11 days worth every day,” said Fr. Gembala, pastor of St. Malachy Parish in Sterling Heights.

And in addition to following the Church’s standard requirements for fasting and abstinence, he has added another sacrifice this year.

“I’m giving up my Starbuck’s for the 40 days of Lent, and give the money I save to charity,” he continued, explaining that having a cup of coffee at the popular coffeehouse while reading the newspaper had become part of his daily routine.

Fr. Gembala has also set himself another goal: “I’m working on my patience. I find the virtue of patience is very important as a priest.

“Also, I intend to make a real good confession during Lent. I hope to grow closer to the Lord,” he added.

In Fr. Gembala’s view, it is important for a pastor to lead by example when it comes to keeping a good Lent.

“If you’re not walking the walk yourself, how can you ask others to?”