Religious Education

This week's Prayer 

Gospel Reading

Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus teaches that his disciples are to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world.

Family Connection

The widespread use of electricity in our society may make us less aware of the value and importance of light. To re-engage with the power of the metaphor that Jesus offers, gather your family in a darkened room. Bring only one flashlight.

Sit together for a minute and consider what you are able to do and see in so little light. You might try opening the Bible to see whether you can read today’s Gospel. Turn on the flashlight and experiment to see how one might use it to achieve the greatest amount of light. Then read today’s Gospel by the light of the flashlight. Ask everyone to consider what it means to say that Christians are to be the light of the world. How might your family act in a way that is a light for others, a light that is worthy to put on a lamp stand? Choose one thing that your family will do this week to show that you are the light of the world. You might choose to participate in an activity that your parish sponsors, such as pray together.

May God’s blessings be with you always in the Chinese New Year, guiding you through all your hurdles.

Hope this New Year brings with itself new opportunities for you and your family. Happy Chinese New Year!