February 8, 2026 - Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples, “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.” These are not compliments so much as callings. Salt only matters when it is used, and light only fulfills its purpose when it shines outward. Discipleship, Jesus reminds us, is never meant to be hidden or kept private.

The first reading from Isaiah helps us understand what this looks like in real life. True faith is not only about prayer or ritual, but about concrete acts of love: feeding the hungry, sheltering the oppressed, and caring for those in need. When we live this way, Isaiah says, “your light shall break forth like the dawn.” Our faith becomes visible through compassion.

Saint Paul, writing to the Corinthians, echoes this message by reminding them that the power of the Gospel does not come from impressive words or human wisdom, but from the quiet strength of God at work in ordinary people. When we live with humility and trust, God’s light shines through us.

As we gather for Eucharist this week, we are reminded that Christ is the true Light who nourishes us. Strengthened by Him, we are sent out to bring flavor to a world that can feel bland and hope to places that feel dark. May we live our faith boldly, so that others, seeing our good works, may give glory to God.

Those today’s readings speak of the practicality of the call to be a disciple and put it into the words as a parable of salt and other images that in reality of life become an expression of life. As we buried Ed Ercole this week, looking at his life and his involvement in practical ways of serving others and God, I could see in him embodiment of those parables and comparisons that the scripture makes. I think of Ed as the servant of God, lover of his wife and family, lover of life and dedicated brother to others and even the strangers. All of it lived with the spark of good humor about everything, always positive, always with some good practical advice, ready to help you with anything. You could always count on Ed and his team, Carol and Many. God bless You Ed!!! Thank You for everything!!! You will be greatly missed and never forgotten!!! You were unique!!! Rest in peace Ed!!!

God bless everyone always!!!

Fr. Stan