Abiding Press

Abiding Presence Faith Community

A PARISH OF THE REFORMED CATHOLIC CHURCH
AN INCLUSIVE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
MAKING GOD’S LOVE KNOWN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

February 2026 VOLUME 5 #3
5330 Poinsetta Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792
321-594-4922
Office info@apfcwp.com

Vigil Mass is Celebrated at Saturday at 5:00 pm
The Sanctuary Building of the First United Church of Christ
4605 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, Florida 32812

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Clergy Serving the People of God
Pastor: Most Rev. William R. Cavins
Rev. Mr. Christopher M. Larsen  

Volunteer Staff Serving the Parish

Gene L. Thompson II – Technology
Keegan Glover, LLM – LGBTQ+ Liaison
Dennis Last – JMB Crock Pot Ministry
Klaus Stodtmann – Bread Baking

Mass Intentions & Prayer Requests

🙏 Remembering Loved Ones in Prayer

If you would like to have someone remembered during Mass or added to our Prayer Lists, please email your request to the pastor.

💒 Support Our Parish

We warmly invite you to support our parish community. Your generous donations are deeply appreciated and can be made at your convenience. Thank you for helping us continue our mission.

✉️ Mass Cards Available

Mass Cards are available and can be sent to loved ones as a thoughtful way to let them know they are being remembered in our prayers.

February2026 – Abiding Presence Faith Community

Weekly & Recurring Ministries

Mondays: Breaking Open the Word – 7:00 PM via Zoom

Tuesdays: Rebecca’s Pantry – 9:30 to 11:30 AM

Wednesdays: Joni’s Treasures Thrift Shop – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Saturdays: Divine Worship – Vigil Mass – 5:00 PM

🔔 Special Dates & Intentions

February 1 (Sunday)

February 2 (Monday)The Presentation of the Lord & Our Lady of Montevergine

Breaking Open the Word – 7:00 PM via Zoom

February 3 (Tuesday) Saint Blaise
Rebecca’s Pantry – 9:30 to 11:30 AM

February 4 (Wednesday)
Joni’s Treasures Thrift Shop – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Formation Meeting for Priests – Invitation Only 6:30 PM

February 5 (Thursday) St. Felipe de Jesus

February 7 (Saturday)

Divine Worship – Vigil of 5th Sunday of Discipleship 5 PM
Intention: For Those in Need of Healing (Blessing of Throats after Mass in honor of St. Blaise)

February 8 (Sunday) St. Josephine Bakhita

February 9 (Monday)
Breaking Open the Word – 7:00 PM via Zoom

February 10 (Tuesday)
Rebecca’s Pantry – 9:30 to 11:30 AM

February 11 (Wednesday) World Day of the Sick
Joni’s Treasures Thrift Shop – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

February 14 (Saturday) Happy Valentines Day
Divine Worship – Vigil of 6th Sunday of Discipleship 5 PM
Intention: For Married Couples, Families, and Friends

February 16 (Monday)
Breaking Open the Word – 7:00 PM via Zoom

February 17 (Tuesday)
Rebecca’s Pantry – 9:30 to 11:30 AM

February 18 (Wednesday)

Drive Thru Ashes 3 PM to 6 PM Church Parking Lot
Joni’s Treasures Thrift Shop – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Divine Worship – Ash Wednesday 7:00 PM Bishop’s Residence
Intention: For Vocations to Diaconal and Priestly Ministry
No Formation Meeting for Priests

February 21 (Saturday)
Divine Worship – Vigil of the 1^st Sunday of Lent 5 PM
Intention: For the Homeless and Hungry

Parish Soup Supper after Mass

February 23 (Monday)
Breaking Open the Word – 7:00 PM via Zoom

February 24 (Tuesday)
Rebecca’s Pantry – 9:30 to 11:30 AM

February 25 (Wednesday)
Joni’s Treasures Thrift Shop – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Formation Meeting for Priests – Invitation Only 6:30 PM

February 28 (Saturday)
Food Pantry Collection – Please bring non-perishables to church
Divine Worship – Vigil of the 2^nd Sunday of Lent 5 PM
Intention: For the Unemployed and the underemployed.

Financial Update as of 1/25/2026

Total Income Year to Date: $ 307.00

Total Expenditures Year to Date: $897.49

Difference: -$590.49

Balance available on hand: $1772.70

💻 Online Giving Made Easy

You can now make donations quickly and securely through our website!

For the most efficient processing, we recommend using Zelle. If you choose another payment method, please ensure your donation is sent as if to an individual to avoid delays.

All donations—regardless of platform—can be directed to:

📧 bkpg@apfcwp.com

Thank you for your continued generosity and support!

🟥 Know Your Rights: Red Cards Available

In these uncertain times, it’s important for both U.S. citizens and immigrants to understand their rights. We are offering Red Cards, which outline what to do if Law Enforcement or ICE comes to your door.

📍 Pick-Up: Red Cards are available at Mass on the desk in the Narthex.

📬 Request by Mail: Send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the Parish Office.

Limit: 5 cards per request

Please specify your preferred version:

English/English, Spanish/English and Haitian Creole / English

From the Bishop’s Desk

Lent: Called to Be Christ’s Presence

Lent is far more than a season of giving things up, it is a time to reclaim the identity we received at baptism. In those waters, we were united with Christ’s death and resurrection and commissioned to make His presence visible in the world. Lent invites us to renew that mission through prayer, fasting, and acts of mercy that embody God’s love.

Saint Paul writes: “As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (Galatians 3:27). To be “clothed with Christ” means that our lives reflect His compassion and justice. Lent challenges us to ask: How am I living as Christ’s presence in my family, workplace, and community?

One way to answer that call is through the Corporal Works of Mercy, which root our faith in concrete acts of love:

• Feed the Hungry: Instead of simply abstaining from a favorite food, redirect those resources to stock a local pantry or volunteer at a soup kitchen. When we share bread with the hungry, we fulfill Jesus’ words: “I was hungry and you gave me food” (Matthew 25:35).
• Visit the Sick: In a world where isolation is common, a phone call, hospital visit, or delivering a meal can be a sacrament of presence. These small acts proclaim that Christ’s healing love is still active through us.
• Clothe the Naked: Organize a clothing drive or donate gently used garments to shelters. This simple gesture affirms the dignity of those who often feel forgotten.
• Shelter the Homeless: Support housing initiatives or prepare care kits for those living on the streets. Even small efforts can be signs of hope.

These works are not optional extras; they are expressions of baptismal grace. When we engage in them, we do more than perform charity, we participate in Christ’s mission of reconciliation and renewal.

Lent also calls us to look deeper. Feeding the hungry is not only about bread; it is about advocating for systems that ensure no one goes without. Visiting the sick is not only about comfort; it is about challenging structures that neglect the vulnerable. In this way, our baptismal calling becomes prophetic, urging us to transform the world in love.

As we journey through Lent, let us remember: the ashes on our foreheads are not a sign of despair but of hope – a reminder that we belong to Christ and are sent to be His presence. Through prayer, fasting, and works of mercy, we make visible the One who is ever with us, bringing light into every shadow.

In Christ’s Love,

+William

Pastor

Welcome Bishop Tobias

It is with great joy that we announce the appointment of the Most Rev. Fayette Tobias  III as Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs.

Bishop Tobias has faithfully served as Prior of the Oratory of St. Benedict in Calhoun, Georgia, providing pastoral care, preaching, and guidance to the faithful. We are grateful that he will now bring his gifts, wisdom, and devotion to serve alongside Bishop Cavins in guiding our growing diocese.

Please join in prayerfully welcoming Bishop Tobias into our diocesan family, asking God to bless his ministry with wisdom, courage, and joy as he shepherds the people of our Lord across this wide and diverse diocese.

Congratulations Bishop Morgan

We wish to extend our congratulations to Bishop James Morgan of Henderson, NV, upon his election as the Ordinary of the Diocese of Saints Joseph and George.

Presiding Bishop Christopher Carpenter said, “While I didn’t intend it or realize the connection originally, today’s traditional feast of Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops, is a perfect day to announce the new Bishop Ordinary of our western Diocese of Saints Joseph & George.  I am pleased to confirm the election of Bishop James Morgan.  He becomes Ordinary effective immediately, but Bishop Leonard Walker will celebrate a formal Rite of Installation for him this Sunday, February 1st.  Bishop Linda Bond-Pilato will now serve as Auxiliary Bishop of the diocese.

Carpenter noted how pleased he was with the participation in the election by clergy and laity of their diocese. He further commented on the affirming and reassuring words some voters shared with me about both +James and +Linda via email or phone.  They are greatly respected, appreciated and loved by those they serve.

“Gather, Pray, and Share:

Building Community Through Lenten Soup Suppers”

Lent is a season of reflection, renewal, and deepening our connection with God and one another. One of the most meaningful ways to live this spirit of community is through Soup Suppers, simple meals shared after worship that remind us of humility, hospitality, and solidarity.

Soup Suppers are more than a meal; they are an opportunity to:

• Foster fellowship among parishioners and newcomers.
• Practice simplicity, echoing the Lenten call to live with less.
• Create space for conversation, prayer, and mutual support.

Gathering around a table after worship strengthens bonds and helps us experience the Church as a family united in Christ’s love.

Suggests on Inviting People to the Saturday Vigil Mass and Soup Supper

The Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 PM is a beautiful way to begin the weekend in prayer. Following Mass, the Soup Supper offers a warm, welcoming environment for all. Here are some inviting strategies:

1. Personal Invitations

• Personally invite friends, neighbors, and family. A simple “Join us for Mass and a warm bowl of soup afterward!” can make a big difference.

2. Announcements and Visuals

• Post announcements on your social media social media.
  • Some suggestions are found at the end of the newsletter

3. Hospitality

• Welcome guests at Mass and guide them to the supper afterward.
• Offer name tags to encourage conversation and connection.

Combining worship and a shared meal reflects the early Church’s practice of breaking bread together. It transforms Lent from a solitary journey into a communal pilgrimage of faith, hope, and love.

Are you looking to become more involved in our parish?

We have a variety of opportunities for you to contribute and make a difference throughout the week. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Saturdays: Join us in a range of roles including readers, technical support, musicians, singers, altar servers, and Eucharistic Ministers. Your participation enriches our worship experience.
• Mondays and Tuesdays: Help us with our Crock Pot Classes. If you’re interested in presenting, please reach out to Dennis Last for more information.
• Tuesdays: Volunteer at Rebecca’s Pantry in the morning. Your assistance can make a significant impact on those in need.
• Wednesdays: Contribute to our Thrift Shop. We need enthusiastic helpers to support this valuable outreach.
• LGBTQ+:  Contact Keegan Glover for information.
• Immigration:We are seeking individuals who would be willing to accompany immigrants tocourt or other appearances.

So much to choose from! Reflect on how you might be called to serve and make a difference. What is God inviting you to do?

If you are interested in any of these opportunities or have questions, please contact [appropriate contact person/office] for more details. We look forward to your involvement and contributions to our parish community!

Prayer for Vocations

Gracious God, we give thanks for your call to both women and men to serve in Christ’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, and consecrated persons. We ask that you send your Holy Spirit to inspire and guide others to respond with generosity and courage to your call. May our community of faith nurture and support vocations rooted in sacrificial love, especially among our youth and young adults. Through our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

A Prayer for Those in Formation

Almighty God, we lift up all those in formation, preparing to serve with hearts full of faith and dedication. Grant them wisdom, strength, and discernment as they grow in their journey. Guide their minds, strengthen their spirits, and fill them with your love. May they always walk in humility and grace, ready to serve others and follow the path you have set before them. We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.

Deacon Alex Bitterman, Deacon Ken Gladding, serving the Diocese of St. John XXIII, Deacon Kody Hall, OPR, serving in the Diocese of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs, and Deacon Mark Schmidt of the Diocese of Saints Joseph and George, are currently in formation for priesthood.

Our Lady of Montevergine:

A Beacon of Compassion in Today’s World

 Our Lady of Montevergine, also known as the Madonna di Montevergine, is a revered Black Madonna whose icon, housed in the Sanctuary of Montevergine in southern Italy, traces its origins back to at least the early 13th century. The sanctuary, perched atop Mount Partenio near Naples, was founded in 1119 by St. William of Vercelli. The venerable painting, depicting the Madonna and Child in dark hues against a gilded backdrop, has drawn pilgrims for centuries, around 1.5 million annually, seeking spiritual solace and miraculous intervention.

One of the most poignant legends associated with Montevergine tells of two young men from Sicily in the mid-13th century who were attacked and left bound in the snow for their love. According to tradition, they prayed to Mary, and miraculously she intervened—melting the chains of ice that bound them and guiding them to safety. This centuries-old tale has resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ Catholics, who have embraced the Madonna di Montevergine as a sign of divine compassion and inclusivity. In our era, marked by global debates over inclusion and belonging, her example offers a powerful witness to God’s tender, non-discriminatory love.

Timeless Relevance in a Fragmented Society

• A Sanctuary for the marginalized: The Montevergine pilgrimage continues to attract femminielli—a Neapolitan term for third-gender or gender-diverse people—and other LGBTQ+ pilgrims, especially during Candlemas, creating space for communal prayer, cultural affirmation, and spiritual healing. [fairplanet.org], [qspirit.net]
• Champion of protection and dignity: The Madonna’s intervention in medieval times, saving marginalized lovers from violence and abandonment, still speaks into our times when many face persecution simply for who they are. [uscatholic.org], [fairplanet.org]
• Bridge across divides: Montevergine’s devotion has historically transcended social and regional boundaries. Today, her universal maternal care invites Christians to break down walls of distrust and embrace one another in compassion.

Concrete Examples for Today’s Church

• Care for those on society’s margins: Just as Montevergine cradles the wounded and oppressed, contemporary communities can offer safe spaces—church gatherings, counseling centers, or advocacy ministries—for those silenced or excluded.
• Celebrate Candlemas as inclusion: Rather than minimizing the voices of the marginalized, parishes could reimagine Candlemas with inclusive processions, readings, or testimonies that honor the value of every human being.
• Interfaith and social solidarity: By echoing Montevergine’s openness, local parishes might partner with LGBTQ+, immigrant, or homeless outreach groups—offering not mere charity, but shared encounters centered in respect and dignity.

Our Lady of Montevergine is more than a historical artifact, she is a living testament to Christ‑like mercy and inclusion. In our broken world, she inspires us to recognize and protect those who are marginalized, especially the LGBT+ community, who have often experienced rejection from religious spaces.

May we, like Mary of Montevergine, become gentle and welcoming instruments of God’s healing grace, offering refuge, dignity, and hope to all.

What Does St. Felipe de Jesús Teach Us Today?

St. Felipe de Jesús, the first canonized saint from Mexico, offers a powerful witness of  courage, faith, and missionary zeal. Born in Mexico City in 1572, Felipe initially lived a life of worldly pursuits before experiencing a profound conversion. He joined the Franciscan Order and set out for missionary work in Asia. On his way to Japan, he was arrested during a period of intense persecution against Christians and was martyred in Nagasaki in 1597, along with 25 other companions.

Lessons for Today

1. Conversion and Renewal
   Felipe’s life reminds us that holiness is not about perfection from the start but about openness to God’s transforming grace. In a world that often prizes success and comfort, his story calls us to embrace ongoing conversion and deeper commitment to Christ.
2. Missionary Spirit
   Felipe’s willingness to leave everything behind for the Gospel challenges us to live beyond self-interest. Today, this can mean engaging in local and global outreach—supporting missions, advocating for justice, and sharing faith through service.
3. Courage in Witness
   In an age where faith can be marginalized, Felipe’s martyrdom inspires us to stand firm in our convictions. His example urges us to live authentically as Christians, even when it is inconvenient or costly.
4. Solidarity with the Persecuted
   Felipe’s death alongside others reminds us of the countless Christians who still suffer for their faith. We are called to pray for them and work for religious freedom everywhere.

Concrete Applications

• Volunteer in parish ministries that serve the poor and marginalized.
• Support missionary efforts through prayer and resources.
• Speak up for justice and truth in social and professional settings.
• Live Lent as a time of renewal, echoing Felipe’s courage and generosity.

Prayer to St. Felipe de Jesús

Holy Felipe de Jesús, faithful witness to Christ’s love and courage, you embraced the cross in a distant land, trusting that no ocean or mountain could separate you from the mercy of God.

You teach us that discipleship knows no borders, and that the Gospel calls us to solidarity
with every people and nation. Strengthen us when fear or comfort tempts us away from the path of justice and peace. Help us to live boldly, to speak truth with compassion, and to honor the dignity of all creation.

Intercede for us, that we may walk in the way of Christ, bearing hope where there is despair, and love where there is hatred. May your witness inspire us to offer our lives in service, until all are gathered in the embrace of Divine Love. Through Christ, who lives and reigns with the Spirit, ever among us, now and forever. Amen.

Saint Blaise:

Healing Grace and the Blessing of Throats

 Saint Blaise (also known as Blasius) was a bishop and martyr of the early 4th century, venerated in both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. He served as bishop of Sebaste in Armenia and became renowned for his pastoral care and miraculous healings. According to tradition, Blaise was a physician before his ordination, which contributed to his reputation as a healer of both body and soul.

One of the most famous stories about Saint Blaise involves the healing of a child who was choking on a fish bone. Through his intercession, the child was saved, and this miracle established Blaise as the patron saint of those suffering from throat ailments. Over time, his patronage expanded to include protection against illnesses and even wild animals, as legends recount his kindness toward creatures during his time of prayer in the wilderness.

The Blessing of Throats is a sacramental celebrated on February 3, the feast day of Saint Blaise. In this rite, two candles, often crossed and sometimes tied with a red ribbon, are placed near the throat of the faithful while the celebrant prays for healing and protection. The traditional formula invokes God’s mercy through the intercession of Saint Blaise, asking for deliverance from throat diseases and every other illness.

In the Reformed Catholic tradition, this blessing is offered with inclusive language, emphasizing God’s care for all creation and the universal call to wholeness. A sample prayer might be:

“Through the intercession of Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr, may the God of life and love bring you healing and peace, and keep you safe from all harm. In the name of Christ, our Healer. Amen.”

This practice reminds the faithful that God’s grace touches every aspect of life, and that saints like Blaise inspire us to live with compassion and courage.

Prayer to Saint Blaise

Blessed Blaise, shepherd of God’s people and healer of bodies and hearts, you bore witness to Christ with courage and compassion, guiding the faithful and caring for all who suffered.

Through your intercession, we seek wholeness and peace: for those burdened by illness, for those longing for strength, and for all creation yearning for renewal.

Teach us to speak words that heal, to listen with patience, and to live in harmony with one another. May your example inspire us to serve generously, to protect the vulnerable, and to trust in the boundless mercy of God. We ask this through Christ, who is Life and Love, with the Spirit, ever among us, now and forever. Amen.

St. Josephine Bakhita

A Saint for Our Time

Saint Josephine Bakhita (1869–1947) stands as a radiant witness to hope, resilience, and  the transformative power of faith. Born in Darfur, Sudan, she was kidnapped as a child and endured years of brutal slavery. Her captors stripped her of her name, calling her “Bakhita,” meaning “fortunate,” a bitter irony in the midst of suffering. Yet, through unimaginable hardship, Josephine discovered a deeper truth: her dignity was rooted not in human status but in the love of God.

After years of servitude, Josephine found refuge with the Canossian Sisters in Italy. There, she encountered the Gospel and embraced a life of faith. Baptized in 1890, she chose the name Josephine and later entered religious life as a Canossian Sister. Her journey from oppression to liberation became a living testimony to the promise of redemption and the inviolable worth of every person.

Josephine Bakhita’s story resonates profoundly in our time. She is a patron for those who suffer exploitation, human trafficking, and systemic injustice. Her life calls us to confront modern slavery in all its forms and to advocate for the dignity of every human being. In a world fractured by violence and inequality, Josephine reminds us that grace can heal even the deepest wounds and that forgiveness is stronger than hatred.

In the Reformed Catholic tradition, we honor Josephine as a saint who embodies inclusive love. She teaches us that holiness is not confined to privilege or power but flourishes in the lives of those who persevere in faith amid adversity. Her witness urges us to build communities where freedom, justice, and compassion prevail.

Prayer to St. Josephine Bakhita

Loving God, you led Josephine Bakhita from captivity to freedom and filled her heart with peace and joy. Through her intercession, strengthen all who suffer injustice, and inspire us to work for liberation and dignity for every person. May her life remind us that your grace is stronger than fear, and your love is without limits. We ask this through Christ, who lives and reigns with the Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

Lenten Regulations for 2026:

A Season of Renewal

As we enter Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, the Church invites us to prepare our hearts for Easter through practices that unite us with Christ and one another. Here are the guidelines for this holy season:

Days of Fast and Abstinence

• Ash Wednesday (Feb. 18) and Good Friday are days of fasting and abstinence.
• All Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence from meat.

Who Is Bound?

• Fasting: Ages 18–59. One full meal and two smaller meals (not equal to a full meal); no eating between meals.
• Abstinence: Ages 14 and older.

Exemptions: Those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, elderly, or whose work would be harmed by fasting are not obliged. Instead, choose another act of love or sacrifice.

The Paschal Fast

The fast on Good Friday may continue until the Easter Vigil, honoring Christ’s Passion and preparing for the joy of Resurrection.

Beyond the Minimum

Lent is more than rules, it’s a call to conversion. Consider extra acts of prayer, charity, and simplicity: digital fasting, volunteering, or giving to those in need.

Ash Wednesday

Ashes may be received on the forehead or sprinkled on the head. Both are valid signs of repentance and hope.

Why We Do This:
These practices help us turn from sin and grow in love for God and neighbor. Let’s journey together this Lent, supporting one another in faith and mercy.

Family Faith Activities

Courtesy of LTP’s At Home with the Word 2026.

February 1, 2026

Fourth Sunday of the Christian Year

Questions

◆ Some baptized Christians might consider that the first line of today’s first reading doesn’t apply to them, since they are already established in a faith community. They might think that seeking must be for others who have not yet found their place. In what way could you apply today’s encouragement to “seek” to yourself or to your community as a whole?

◆ In today’s second reading, Paul seems to ascribe rather uncomplimentary qualities to

Christian disciples. In fact, the more foolish, weak, lowly, and despised we are, the better

Christ’s wisdom can work through us. In your spiritual life, how have you experienced your weaknesses as places where Christ can enter more fully into your life? Have you ever

noticed that your human successes or achievements could be barriers to receiving God’s

wisdom?

◆ To which of the groups called “blessed” do you identify most closely at this moment of

your life? Or to which do you most aspire?

Activities

◆ The “poor in spirit” are sometimes called the “anawim.” If you have not heard about this

important biblical concept, look into it. You could consult the New American Bible’s

footnotes for these verses of the Gospel , a Bible dictionary, or a Catholic commentary on the Bible.

◆ Discuss in your group or write in your journal about the “faithful remnant” — the people you know or hear of who are truly “humble and lowly” and faithful. What have they stirred in you? Admiration, confusion, guilt, worry, excitement, inspiration? If you have been consciously trying to be part of that remnant, how is it going? What is it like to choose the “humble and lowly” road in a society focused on achievement and power?

◆ The Beatitudes have inspired music, from a choral and string piece by Russian composer Vadimir Martynov, to various church hymns and songs that may be familiar to you. Using a hymnal from your church or searching on the internet, look for music related to the Beatitudes that might inspire you. Themes from the Beatitudes can also be found in

films. If you would appreciate reflecting on topics raised by the lectionary readings in

films (including the Beatitudes), consult Lights, Camera, Action . . . Faith! A Movie

Lectionary, Cycle A by Peter Malone and Rose Pascatte (2002).

February 8, 2026

Fifth Sunday of the Christian Year

Questions

◆ Reflect on the first five lines in the reading from Isaiah. Which is harder in your life and

in your family system: to “share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless, clothe the naked,” or “not turn your back on your own”?

◆ Paul speaks of the fact that it is “demonstration,” not words, that he sought to bring to the community of Corinth. What do you think of this distinction? Why is it significant?

◆ In this vivid Gospel, Jesus exhorts us to be salt and light. Why were these particularly powerful metaphors in Jesus’ time? How are they still relevant?

Activities

◆ Participate in an activity of service or justice related to physical need in your community this week.

◆ If there is someone in your family who is marginalized or alienated, consider reaching

out to them in some small way, perhaps with a call or a loving note.

◆ Give up salt completely for one day. What do you notice?.

February 15, 2026

Sixth Sunday of the Christian Year

Questions

◆ This week’s reading reminds us of the central importance of following the ten

commandments. Is there a commandment that is harder than another in your life?

◆ Jesus presents anger as a form of killing. What is your reaction to this? How do you

handle anger — your own or that of others? What would Jesus have us do?

◆ In a number of stories, teachings, and parables in the Gospels, Jesus speaks of the least

becoming the greatest. What is your reaction to this? In what ways is this countercultural

Activities

◆ There are challenging passages in this text about adultery and divorce. Using a Catholic

commentary such as the New Jerome Bible Commentary, research the meaning of the

text. How does reading about a difficult text expand your understanding?

◆ Jesus speaks of fulfilling the law and the promise of the prophets. He is not about

abolishing Judaism. Read Nostra Aetate, the Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions (available at http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vatii_decl_19651028_nostra-aetate_en.html) from the Second Vatican Council. It is fairly brief. Does any aspect of it come as a surprise to you?

◆ This Gospel challenges us to constant reconciliation with one another. Do you avail yourself of the sacrament of penance (sometimes called reconciliation) regularly? Why or why not? How can you expand your participation and thereby receive the grace available in this sacrament more regularly?

February 22, 2026

First Sunday of Lent

Questions

◆ On this First Sunday of Lent, we start with the story of creation and sin coming into the

world. Three characters stand out: Adam, Eve, and the serpent. The serpent is one of God’s

creatures, and he represents all that is hostile to humanity. What is hostile to humanity

today? Do you see any tempting serpents at work in the world?

◆ Notice that Eve tries to correct the distortion of God’s instructions suggested by the serpent. Still, she is persuaded to act against God’s direction. In what ways does distortion of the truth contribute to our sinfulness?

◆ Jesus journeys to the desert and encounters the devil. Satan tempts him three times.

Visualize this story in your imagination. What does Jesus see when he is tempted? Where does he turn to counter Satan’s invitations? Are you ever tempted? What does this

text reveal to us as a possible way to react when tempted?

Activities

◆ Some elements of the creation story do not appear in this lectionary reading. Take some

time this week to read the entirety of the story in the second and third chapters of Genesis.

Do you gain any insights from reading this vivid story in its full context? What are they?

◆ Notice that Jesus goes into the desert for forty days. It is also the number of years that the Israelites wandered in the desert. This is the number of days in the season of Lent. Create a reminder of this holy season in your home using the liturgical color, violet, or objects that remind you of the desert.

◆ What is your reaction to reading that even Jesus could experience temptation? What does it mean when we say he was fully God and also fully human? Write your thoughts in

your journal.

“Love and Leadership: A Table of Grace”

Appetizer: Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers

Ingredients:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze
• Toothpicks

Instructions:

1. Slice cherry tomatoes in half and cut a small notch to form a heart shape.
2. Thread tomato halves, mozzarella, and basil onto toothpicks.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Soup (Crock Pot): Presidents’ Day Corn Chowder

Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen corn
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
• Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

Instructions:

1. Add corn, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and broth to crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
3. Stir in milk and seasonings 30 minutes before serving.
4. Optional: Blend half the soup for a creamy texture.

Salad: Winter Greens with Citrus & Pomegranate

Ingredients:

• Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
• Orange segments
• Pomegranate seeds
• Red onion slices
• Toasted pecans
• Dressing: Olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, orange juice

Instructions:

1. Toss greens with orange segments, pomegranate seeds, and onion.
2. Sprinkle pecans on top.
3. Whisk dressing ingredients and drizzle over salad.

Entrée: Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets
• Fresh parsley, dill, and thyme
• Lemon zest
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon butter sauce (butter, lemon juice, garlic)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush salmon with olive oil and press herb mixture on top.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes.
5. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce before serving.

Side Dish: Roasted Root Vegetables

Ingredients:

• Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, beets
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper, rosemary

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cut vegetables into chunks, toss with oil and seasonings.
3. Roast for 30–40 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Dessert: Cherry Pie Hearts

Ingredients:

• Refrigerated pie crust
• Cherry pie filling
• Egg wash
• Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut pie crust into heart shapes.
3. Spoon cherry filling onto half the hearts, top with remaining hearts.
4. Seal edges, brush with egg wash, sprinkle sugar.
5. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden.