Dear Friends of St. Jane Frances and Our Lady of the Chesapeake,
This weekend, the Church celebrates the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Our readings for this weekend speak to us about the law of the Lord, meaning how we are challenged to live with one another in a way that is pleasing to God. Jesus begins the Gospel today by clearly stating that he has come to fulfill the law and the prophets. Today’s Gospel follows from the last two weekends, when we heard the Beatitudes and our call to be salt and light to the world. These teachings of Jesus are not new interpretations of the law and the prophets per se, but instead are fuller revelations of how we are to observe the commandments of God.
But with all of that said, we also know that the greatest commandment is to love God above all else, and then to love our neighbor. As St. Paul says in the Letter to the Romans, love is the fulfillment of the law. When we love one another, we show to others the face of God, who is love. And I would venture to say that all of us long to see God’s face, to know with certainty that God is with us on this earthly journey
Obviously, the Eucharist is one way we experience God’s presence among us, but there are other ways we can make God’s loving presence felt among us. One way is by our service and ministry to others that is funded through the Annual Appeal for Catholic Ministries. This year’s theme is “You are the Light of the World” taken from last weekend’s Gospel. The appeal helps fund the spiritual and corporal works of mercy throughout our Archdiocese, including such ministries as Catholic Charities, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Crisis Pregnancy Centers, Camp GLOW, Disabilities Ministries, Youth Ministry, and Respect Life to name just a few. Our commitment to these indispensable works of the Church is vital in order to fulfill our call to live the great commandment of loving God and neighbor. Therefore, your support of this mission is essential in order for the Church to be successful.
Next weekend is Giving Weekend for the Annual Appeal for Catholic Ministries. During the homily time, you will have an opportunity to complete a pledge form or make a commitment online. This week, I ask you to prayerfully consider what your level of giving will be so that you will be prepared to make your gift next weekend. Thank you for your support of the 2023 Annual Appeal for Catholic Ministries.
Thank you for keeping our Pastorate of St. Jane Frances and Our Lady of the Chesapeake in your daily
prayers!
God Bless,
Father Steve
