January 22, 2023
Today we celebrate the 3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time. This week’s first reading and Gospel have a tie-in with Matthew quoting the phrase we hear in the prophecy of Isaiah, “The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light.” Jesus comes to sea of Galilee, the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, after hearing the news that His cousin, John the Baptist is in prison. Here He begins to preach a challenging message, “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” When we hear that word, ‘Repent’ we often think of Lent, the season of repentance and penance. But the Lord uses this word to call His listeners to turn from their ordinary ways to embrace the gift He is offering, a chance to share in the Kingdom. As we follow Jesus in 2023, He is calling us, inviting us, to embrace the Kingdom. If He is truly our light and our salvation, as we sing in today’s Responsorial Psalm, then nothing that is not His way can we embrace. If we are disciples of the Light, then we must think, act, and live a life of Light and turn away from any darkness in our lives. That’s the challenge.
Yes! St. Luke’s is having another Trivia Night on the Saturday before Lent begins with a Mardi Gras theme. Time to get your table together. Our fun evening will once again take place in Immaculate Conception gym on Saturday, February 18th. Mike and Julia Beaudoin are coordinating the event once again this year, so expect a great evening. See the bulletin for details on how to register.
Our Women’s Guild, in cooperation with the Ladies Auxiliary of at IC, are sponsoring a Sock Drive. New or gently used socks are being collected to help those less fortunate. Please be generous. There is a special Sock Box in the main foyer.
Finally today, Annual Giving Statements have been mailed to those parishioners who contributed a minimum of $500 to St. Luke the Evangelist in the past year. Thank you to all who regularly contribute either online or through the weekly offertory. The stewardship of our treasures is a sign of our love and gratitude to God for the blessings He bestows upon us. Your stewardship not only helps us pay bills, but also provides the parish with the resources we need to be faithful to our mission. Once again, thank you to all who regularly contribute.
God Bless! Have a great week!
Please continue praying 3 Hail Marys.
Fr. Pete