Sunday February 4, 2024
Hebrew scripture suggests that a society is judged on how it treats the poorest and most vulnerable in its midst. Mathew the Evangelist records a parable spoken by Jesus, “whatever you did for one of these least brothers or sisters of mine, you did for me (Mt. 25:40).” The service of charity is an essential dimension of the Church. Saint Vincent de Paul, the Apostle of Charity, urges each of us to “do the good that presents itself!” We are all grateful for the ministry of the members of our Saint Vincent de Paul Society here in our parish. We also recognize the work of Catholic Charities throughout the Diocese of Orange. Last year Catholic Charities helped 680,694 people in Orange County through food and rental assistance, health and wellness services, counseling and citizenship services. Catholic Charities provides these social services to individuals and families to transform hopelessness and despair into self-reliance and optimism.
One of the ministries funded by our annual Diocesan Pastoral Service Appeal (PSA) is Catholic Charities, through whom the Lord continues to heal the brokenhearted. Your contribution to PSA in 2024 will be a way for you to participate in the healing and liberating ministry of Catholic Charities while also giving alms, one of the disciplines of Lent that begins this month. Jesus was anointed to bring glad tidings to the poor (Luke 4:18). Your PSA tax-deductible donation helps fund seminary formation so we have priests and deacons to proclaim the Good News! Your PSA contribution supports Catholic education, forming our youth according to the gospel of Jesus who teaches us how to be human, to celebrate the dignity we all share, rich or poor. Our parish goal this year is the same as last year, $80,000. Thank you for helping us reach and surpass our goal last year! Please discern making a pledge for 2024.
Rev. Robert P. Capone