• Please note that weather related schedule changes will be noted on our webpage as soons as possible.  

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time                                   February 5, 2023                                     

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Last Sunday we reflected on the Beatitudes which began Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Today’s gospel reading (Matthew (5:13-16) is a continuation of the same sermon. Jesus tells the apostles: “You are the salt of the earth (…) You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14).

Since salt was used for several purposes in the ancient world, biblical passages mentioned it on numerous occasions. At that time there were no freezers nor refrigerators. Without salt, food would have spoiled very quickly, thus it was used for preserving and seasoning food (Job 6:6).

Salt was applied to liturgical functions. Blended with incense, it made the scented powder sacred and pure (Exodus 30-35). Salt was also included in burnt offerings (Ezekiel 43:24). More than that, salt symbolized the lasting nature of the agreement between two parties during rectifying a covenant (Numbers 18:19, 2 Chronicles 13:5). Likewise, it symbolized loyalty (Ezra 4:14). Additionally, salt was used for fertilizing soil (Luke 14:43-35) and cleansing (Ezekiel 16:4). Along with water, fire and iron, salt remained a critical necessity for life (Sirach 39:26).

Salt cannot lose its flavor but, in Judaism, it can become unclean. When that happens, it needs to be thrown out.

We are the salt of the earth when we take an active part in the parish community. Our different charisms and talents season and preserve various ministries in the church.

Jesus tells us: “Your light must shine before others “ (Matthew 5:16). This happens when we conduct our daily life according to the precepts of the Gospels by feeding the hungry, helping the migrants, sheltering the homeless, aiding the poor, but also the very little day-to-day acts of kindness toward others that make our world brighter and happier. Isaiah (58:7-10) confirms that truth.

Among many things, as Christians, we have the responsibility not to turn out the light on aged parents who need care, patience and understanding. We have the responsibility not to turn out the light on a spouse who might be facing problems, depression, or midlife crisis. We have the responsibility not to turn out the light on a child/teen who has a tough time growing up and rebels. We have the responsibility not to abandon those who are mentally ill and left on the margin of society.

Each day we have the opportunity to spark the spiritual life in those we encounter. Each day we have a chance to speak to somebody’s yearning heart and lighten up their world. Malicious speech, gossip, false accusations and frowns, instead of smiles, pollute the world and bring darkness.

Let us stand upon our faith and act in faith. When others spread bad news, let us share good news.
                                                            ….

Next Wednesday, a Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking is observed. The blue heart  represents the sadness of those who are trafficked and the heartless individuals who buy and sell human beings. Let us keep all victims of human trafficking and those who fight against it in our prayers.

A pod of dolphins stopped by for a visit. It was enjoyable to see them indulging/savoring local fish.

Thank you Alicja and Witold Rafalowski for having me over for dinner. Ema and Jaroslav Prochazka joined us. I always enjoy our conversations and times together.

Thank you Sandy and Richard Gemach for inviting me to dinner. I also enjoy our times and chats together.

Thank you Trish, Greg, Grace, Matthew and Erin Reichert. It was very thoughtful of you to bring me dinner.

Our kids at school told me how much they enjoy seeing a play “Frozen.” Now they want to see another one.

In Christ,
Fr. Ryszard

National Eucharistic Revival: A Grassroots Response to God’s Invitation

• Due to local active Covid cases, Communion will only be distributed on the hand.

• During Ordinary Time, Altar Flowers may be given in honor or memory of a loved one.  Please contact Cherie Amedy at the Parish Office, 252-726-3559, for more information.

Faith Formation Schedule 2022-23

Registration Form

January Schedule

Sunday School Sunday Morning Session: Pre K - Grade 5, in the Morton Center, 9:30-10:45 AM, January 8 & 22, 2023 

Escuela dominical Sesión dominical por la mañana: Prekínder a 5.° grado, en el Morton Center, de 9:30 a. m. a 10:45 a. m. 8 y 22 de enero de 2023

Middle School Ministry (MSM) Sunday Morning Session: Grades 6-8, 9:30-10:45 AM in the Morton Center, January 15 & 29, 2023

Ministerio de Escuela Intermedia (MSM) Sesión del domingo por la mañana: Grados 6-8, 9:30-10:45 AM en el Morton Center, 15 y 29 de enero de 2023

Confirmation Preparation Sunday Morning Session: Grades 9 through 12, 9:30-10:45 AM in the Morton Center, January 15 & 29, 2023

Preparación para la Confirmación Sesión del domingo por la mañana: Grados 9 a 12, 9:30-10:45 AM en el Morton Center, 15 y 29 de enero de 2023

We are in the process of updating our parish census. We are asking all member families to click on the link below which will take them to a census form where you can make changes in your family listing in our parish directory, ie, address, emails, phone changes, additional children (or removing children who no longer live here, etc. Please do this as soon as possible.

Parish Census Form

Please take a moment to complete the parish registration form by clicking on the link below:

Parish Registration Form

The New Bern Regional Office of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Raleigh is offering NEW programs to service our communities:

Senior Pharmacy -- For qualified seniors -- Assistance paying for: Medications related to Chronic Health Conditions; Limited Medical Supplies; and Health Topic Information.

Emergency Assistance -- Emergency Rent or Utility Assistance; Case Management; Job Search and Budgeting

Disaster Assistance -- When Available: Emergency Rent or Utility Assistance; Home Repair; Case Management

502 Middle Street, New Bern 28560

252-638-2188

Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8:30 AM -12 Noon; 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Donate Now at http://www.catholiccharitiesraleigh.org/donate and Select ``Direct Your Gift: New Bern Deanery

www.catholiccharitiesraleigh.org/locations/new-bern

Providing Help -- Creating Hope -- Serving All

You can now make your offertory donations online by using the link below.

Access Online Giving