Sunday, February 5, 2023 – Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle A Readings: Isaiah 58:7-10, Psalm 112 “ The just man is a light in darkness to the upright”, 1 Corint

     My dear brothers and sisters, Black History Month is a month-long recognition of African Americans and the critical role they played in the founding and shaping of the United States of America.This year's theme is "Black Resistance”, which takes a look at how African-Americans have fought repression from America's 
earlist days.
     There has always been a crossroad between the Christian faith and grave moral issues like war, capital punishment, abortion, racial prejudice, poverty and care for the earth. We are reminded to examine each event and news through the eyes of our catholic faith. The Lord reminds us on this first Sunday of the Black History Month that salt flavors food, as salt preserves food and brings healing, so we are called to transform the world into an expression of beauty and goodness. We have the mission to change what exists in the shadow to what shines with the light. We have the power to go where there is evil and sow seeds of generosity and      compassion. We are the force of the Spirit that blows with energy and joy”. Each of us have been chosen by God to bring the gospel to our homes, workplaces, to pass our faith to our children and grandchildren and share our gifts and talents with the world. The light we reflect is not our own but by God. Awe are the salt of the world because of Christ.
     This Sunday, we begin the “Catholic Sharing Appeal” (CSA). We wish to express our sincere gratitude to you for your contributions and support to our mission and the Catholic Sharing appeal. Our annual Catholic Sharing Appeal allows the diocese to evangelize and serve in many ways Catholic charities- bringing the light of Christ to the less fortunate, Catholic education- preparing students to be a light to the world, faith formation (adults, youth and marriage and family life)- proclaiming the light of Christ, fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life- “yes” to the call, continuing clergy and religious formation- Amy their light shine before others, advocacy and justice-catholic social teaching,             diaconate formation among many others.
     Thank you very much for your continuous contributions and support. It is our prayer that the Lord bless us with a successful campaign. And may He bless you and your good intentions in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.   Amen
Fr. Paschal Chester, SVD