This is the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. We hear about the commandments in the readings today and it is important for us to observe them. Day to day choices are so im- portant in our lives, and these choices either keep us on the right path or send us into confusion and darkness. Jesus sets before us several of the commandments and shows that each one is broader than just its wording. He adds the phrase: “But I say to you…” This illustrates the down-to-earth practicality of the commandment. Jesus is a good teacher and the examples he uses bring his teach- ing to a level that his followers can understand it easily.
Many of you have received a letter from the Cardinal’s Stewardship Appeal asking for your support. Those who gave to Renew and Rebuild are excused from this Appeal. The funds from the Cardinal’s Stewardship Appeal support some important causes in the Archdiocese of New York: aid to struggling and poor churches, aid to Catholic education, funds for seminarians and retired priests, assistance to Catholic Charities, and funds for support services of- fered to parishes. Our parish’s goal is $109,000. Our parish number is 068 which should be noted when making a pledge or giving a donation.
Here is where we stand as of this week:
St. Francis of Assisi Church Goal: $109,000
Donations/Pledges as of February 7: $4,800 Number of Gifts: 9
Average Gift: $533.33
-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.