Kaukauna Catholic Parishes

God’s blessings! Lent begins this week, on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17. We invite you to attend a service that fits your schedule.

Lent is a time to “repent, and believe in the Gospel.” As Catholics, we are encouraged to devote ourselves to “Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving.” This connects to our areas of stewardship that we follow – “Prayer, Service and Sharing.” All of this centers around our dedication to God’s glory.

St. Paul writes to the Corinthians, “Whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do ‘everything’ for the glory of God.” St. Paul says this is not for our own benefit, but that others may be saved. St. Paul invites us to “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” St. Paul was one of the greatest missionary disciples of all time. He believed every moral decision boiled down to the basic question: “What displays our unequivocal dedication to God’s glory?” We are called to be missionary disciples, right where we are, working together with others: family, friends, and people we encounter.

Our first reading from Leviticus speaks of “isolation” as a solution to a problem at that time, Leprosy. It concludes, “he shall dwell apart.” This is strange to hear as our world right now is struggling with people being isolated, and feeling alone. May we pray for those folks in the midst of isolation, whether in their homes, hospitals, assisted living, or nursing homes, and for people struggling with mental illness, perhaps, feeling very much alone. May we share our love of Jesus with them, with whatever means we are able. It is important to pray for their caregivers as well.

The Gospel from Mark is in sharp contrast to the Leviticus reading. Jesus was healing many people who came to him. Lepers were made clean. While we hear, “He remained outside in deserted places,” Jesus was not isolated, “As people kept coming to him from everywhere!” Even now, we can go to Jesus from anywhere and everywhere. His love knows no bounds. Our Psalm reminds us, “Be glad in the Lord and
rejoice.”

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day this weekend, and recognize the conclusion of National Marriage Week, we ask God’s blessings on all married couples, and for all engaged couples preparing for the sacrament of Marriage. May we be conscious of the theme this year: “To have, to hold, to honor.” Marriage and family is a great way to nurture missionary discipleship. And for those husbands or wives whose spouse has passed away, may you find comfort in knowing you were blessed to have precious time with your loved one. Thank all of you for having your love be a sign of God’s glory in the community and world around us.

Last weekend, the Green Bay Diocese kicked off its annual Bishop’s Appeal, with the theme “We Rise Again.” Please prayerfully consider generous support to this vital resource to share the love of Jesus within our churches, schools, and other social services, such as Catholic Charities, serving our communities. May we help increase awareness of the presence of Jesus such that, “People can keep coming to him from everywhere!” Glory to God!

Peace in Christ,

Deacon Steve