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“You are the light of the world.”

Matthew Chapter 5 Verse 14

Today’s scripture reminds me of the beautiful Gospel hymn that has inspired children and even mass movements: “This little light of mine… I’m gonna let it shine.” For those of us with faith, nothing dims the light of Christ. Our lives are dedicated to sharing our joy with one another and the world.

Jesus tells his disciples—which includes all of us who followed in baptism—that we are the light of the word, his messengers of salvation. To deliver that message, each of us is called for a purpose—a mission all our own. By shining our light for all to see, we are answering God’s unique call for us. When you think about it, God needs us to fulfill Christ’s mission of salvation. That’s how important each of us is. We are called to proclaim the gift of salvation in Christ and share it in ways that only each of us can.

When we shine our light for one another and the world, we are being everything Christ asked us to be: healers… teachers… counselors… peacemakers… and people who make a habit of practicing mercy and forgiveness.

Friend, shine your light, however God is calling you, and be fulfilled because your good deeds are the example of faith that will glorify our heavenly Father.

 

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.

 

Prayer for 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet,

Your gospel, a light to the world.

Through the Holy Spirit

let the radiance of Your truth,

Your love, and Your mercy

shine forth through my every

word and deed.

Confident Your light still shines

in the darkness, Lord,

and the darkness has not

overcome it, may I never

hesitate in showing kindness,

gentleness, and compassion

to everyone I meet, but especially

those most in need of Your mercy.

It is better to light a candle

than curse the darkness.

Accept my life, Lord, as a candle

dedicated to You,

consecrated to Your service

and sacrificed for Your glory.

Amen.

Prayer by Maryknoll Missioner, Father Joseph Veneroso

ABOUT MARYKNOLL

We are a Catholic Society of priests and brothers based in the United States. We are dedicated to missionary work overseas in over 20 countries. Additionally, we animate Catholics in the United States to follow their own baptismal call to share God’s compassion and love with the poor, the sick, and all those in need.

OUR GENERAL COUNCIL

L-R Tom O'Brien, Ray Finch, Joe Everson, Russ Feldmeier

(Fr. Lance P. Nadeau, Fr. James M. Lynch, Fr. Timothy O. Kilkelly, Fr. Juan Montes Zúñiga)

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers is overseen by our General Council, led by Superior General Rev. Lance P. Nadeau, M.M.

OUR FOUNDERS

L-R Tom O'Brien, Ray Finch, Joe Everson, Russ Feldmeier

(Our Co-Founders Father Price and Father Walsh)

PLACES WE SERVE

EVANGELIZATION, PARISHES, AND PROJECTS

USA

STORIES OF MISSION

(Africa) Education and Formation of African Clergy

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers Africa Region will provide tuition assistance to African clergy, male and female religious at institutes of higher education or specialized training. Read More

Stories of Our Global Mission

The calling of a lifetime

The life of a Maryknoll missioner is challenging, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding. Follow your baptismal call to mission by sharing God’s compassion with the poor, the sick, and people most in need.