Newsletter February 8th 2026 / 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Readings for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading: Isaiah 58:7-10 – The Compassion of Justice

The prophet Isaiah urges us to “share your bread with the hungry” and “clothe the naked.” This is not a suggestion for     casual charity but a radical reordering of priorities. God’s people are called to action—to see the face of Christ in the    vulnerable and respond with tangible love. Like the prophet, we are reminded that fasting or prayer without justice is     incomplete. True faith moves us to bridge gaps, not merely ponder them.

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 – Foundation in Christ’s Power

St. Paul reflects on his ministry, emphasising that the Gospel is not a product of human wisdom but the mighty power of God. When he preached, he said, “I relied not on human wisdom… but on the demonstration of the Spirit.” This challenges us to examine how we share our faith. Are we building our lives on our own cleverness, or are we allowing the Holy Spirit to shape us? Authentic Christian witness is not about eloquence but the quiet confidence that God’s truth transforms.

Gospel: Matthew 5:13-16 – Salt and Light

In the Beatitudes’ aftermath, Jesus declares us “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” Salt preserves and       enhances flavour; light dispels darkness. Yet, Jesus warns that salt can lose its taste, and a hidden lamp serves no purpose. What does this mean for us? It means our faith must season the mundane—a kind word to a stranger, integrity in our work, mercy in conflict. And our light must shine—not concealed, but visible in how we live, so others may glorify God.

How can we be salt and light this week?

· In Small Acts of Mercy: Hold the door, listen deeply, or cook a meal for someone burdened.

· Through Advocacy: Volunteer at a shelter, support fair wages, or pray for peace in conflicts.

· By Sharing Our Light: Invite someone to Mass, share a testimony of God’s faithfulness, or light a candle in prayer for the world’s needs.