2/9/2014 – 5th Sunday in Ordinary time – Matthew 5:13-20 –

       Today, on the 5^th Sunday in Ordinary Time, just about a month before we commemorate the start of our Lenten season, we hear a part of the Sermon on the Mount in our Gospel today, as Jesus tells us what we should be as his followers.  We are to be the salt of the earth, we are to be the light of the world. As disciples of Christ, we are to bring flavor and light to the world around us. 

Such images are probably very familiar to us as followers of Christ: we know that we are to be a light in the darkness of our world, that we’re to change the flavor of our world, to bring a perspective of faith no matter where we are in our lives.  But perhaps this is easier said that done. 

       We hear the Gospel today in the context of our Diocese’s Catholic Service Appeal.  The theme of this year’s appeal is “The Power of Giving.” Through the Catholic Service Appeal this year, we can indeed be a light in the world.  We can indeed be the salt of the earth. Our contributions to the CSA strengthens those who turn to Catholic Charities in our Diocese in their time of need.  It reaches out to form leaders in our Diocese who will help our children, our youth, and our adults grow in their faith.  It helps educate future priests and care for retired priests.  Our contributions to the CSA are an act of FAITH, HOPE, and LOVE. 

      Every week, I see our parishioners living out their faith in different ways.  We see them touching lives in a variety of circumstances.   In who we are and in our reality, we are to let your light shine in the midst of the darkness & brokenness of our world.  This Sunday, we will be that light with our Catholic Service Appeal.  Any contribution you can make will help a great deal.  We will now listen to the year’s Catholic Service Appeal Message. 

       As we do so, keep in mind the words of our newly installed Bishop Joseph Kopacz:  Dear Friends - I am honored that Pope Francis has chosen me to serve as the 11th Bishop of the Diocese of Jackson.  I would like to thank you for supporting the annual Catholic Service Appeal.  I have heard from Bishop Latino how generous the people of Mississippi are and it is apparent in the support that you give to the Appeal.  As you listen to the audio message I hope that you will prayerfully consider a gift to the 2014 Appeal “The Power of Giving.”  I am looking forward meeting the good people of our diocese.