In today’s Gospel from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says that we are the salt of the earth and the light for the world. The second-century historian Pliny declared that nothing is more useful than salt or sunshine. Yet, if you can’t taste salt and if light cannot be seen, what good are they? In this part of the Sermon on the Mount, by using these images, the Lord tells us that Christians had better do what Christians do if we are not to be thought of as ridiculous. Our responsibility is not only to “be salt” or to “be light”. We have to be salt “of the earth,” and light “for the world.”

This weekend we are asked to participate in our Annual Catholic Appeal to raise funds for the many ministries of our diocese. The theme of this year’s appeal, “Gratitude in Action”, reminds us that we are called to be grateful for the gifts we have received and at the same time to share our gifts with others. This year’s appeal will make more available a Catholic school education for those who desire it, funding for Evangelization and Formation of youth and young adults, prison ministry, seminarian and retired priest support and the many works of Catholic Charities. Our parish share in the diocesan-wide goal is $77,500.

We have superseded our goal every year and I am confident that this year we will again! Any amount that is received over our parish goal will be returned to our parish for our own various needs. Please consider a response to this appeal which reflects the gifts which God has joyfully given you. You will find the Response cards and pencils at your places this morning. Please make your pledge today or return the card in the weekend collection basket or at the parish office. You may also make an online pledge or donation at giving.sdcatholic.org. Your participation will make a difference. Once again, thank you for your generosity.

Love, Fr. Vince Mesi, OFM