From the Desk of Father Mark - Our Pastor
January 25, 2026 - Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

NOT AVAILABLE ON THIS BULLETIN EDITION

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From the Desk of Father Mark - Our Pastor
February 8, 2026 - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

"A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden.
Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket;
it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.
Just so, your light must shine before others,
that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."

Today is the second installment of Matthew's Sermon on the Mount. Last week, the Beatitudes began our reflection on this most important sermon. In these passages, Jesus reveals the kingdom of heaven. In and through Jesus Christ, we have our eternal life. The disciples and all believers will have to spend me and prayer discovering the significance of God's revelation to us through the Son.

In today's passage, the disciples and listeners are reminded of their significance as children of God. They/we are children of God, children of Light. 'You are the light of the world' are the familiar words which dene who and whose we are.

Living our life as children of light is often a challenge, and sin can darken that light. As Catholics we believe that Confession and Eucharist are the primary ways we remain in the light and out of darkness.

Our light breaks forth like the dawn, when we listen to the Lord, as spoken through the prophet Isaiah in our rst reading, "Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own."

In the words of Daniel Patte, 'those who are blessed are the people who not only hear Jesus' words but also do them... thus to internalize the will of God.

Reflecting on this passage of light, we strive to be people whose heart is so internalized to God, that others will see the good we do and give glory to God.

- The Annual Catholic Appeal is upon us. During February, we are asked to consider a financial gift so as to sustain the many ministries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Please pray for the appeal and be as generous as you are able. Thank you!

- Congratulations to our Confirmation students on receiving this Sacrament. May the Holy Spirit be always with you!

Have a great week!

Fr. Mark Walter
Pastor of Our Lady of the Ridge - St.Linus Parish