My Dear Parishioners,
On this Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, the theme of light shines through our readings today. The emphasis is not exclusively, or even primarily, on Jesus as the Light of the world, but on our call to be the light of the world.
Today's First Reading takes place as the exiles from the Babylonian captivity return to Jerusalem and their homeland.
In the Gospel today, Jesus challenges His disciples to live out our lives as salt for the earth and light for the world.
The challenge for us today is to make a difference in other people's lives. We are to tend to those who are facing tough times. It means we need to get involved in helping the less fortunate. The readings make it clear that we are the salt of the world, light to others. If we pick out one person or one organization to whom we can be salt and light, then we can make a conscious effort to help those, know they cannot "pay us back." One flicker of light will lead to a little less darkness. As we begin to share the light, we will experience lighter and more energy to reach out even more. Each of us must see how we can make a difference in the life of at least one other person. If we do, the flavor of life will be enhanced, the darkness of evil will be overcome by light. This is what God wants. We are called to action. Our God has become one with us in Christ Jesus, the One Who was crucified. This reaching out in the name of Jesus is where the power of God will be manifested. This is what we who call ourselves disciples of Jesus must do. We must imitate our Teacher Who gave totally of Himself so that people would experience the loving presence of God that enhances and preserves life and enlightens the darkness in life.
May you continue to be a source of the enhancement in other people's lives, by bringing light into their darkness and providing a sense of hope in them. Amen!
God Bless You,
Fr. George, MSFS
LITURGICAL SCHEDULE:
Weekend Mass Schedule:
Saturday, February 7, 2026...
4:00 pm
Sunday, February 8, 2026...
SJA at 8:15 am
SSPP at 10:15 am
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Confessions:
SSPP Saturdays - 3:00 pm
SJA —Sundays - 7:45 am to 8:15 am
For Any Other Time Needed: Please Call the Office for an Appointment at 715-985-2227.
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RELIGIOUS & ADULT EDUCATION
A Prayer For Peace And Protection
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often lose sight of your guiding light. Grant us the wisdom to pause and seek your presence in our routines. Protect us from the stresses and anxieties that burden us, and fill our hearts with your enduring peace. May we find solace in the simplicity of your love and protection as we go about our daily tasks. Amen
Amen.
DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE GUIDELINES FOR REPORTING INSTANCES OF CHILD ABUSE:
The Diocese of La Crosse, through its policies and procedures, seeks to provide a prompt, appropriate, and compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (bishop, priest, deacon, employee, religious, vendor, or volunteer). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of sexual abuse should send that report to Mrs. Teresa Brown, Complaint Intake Agent, at the Diocese of La Crosse, P.O. Box 4004, La Crosse, WI 54602-4004. Alternatively, you can contact Mrs. Brown at 608.791.0179 or intakeagent@diolc.org. The reporting form is available through the Diocese of La Crosse Office of Safe Environment or on the diocesan website at: diolc.org/safe-environment/reporting. Individuals are also encouraged to submit their reports directly to the relevant civil authorities. Copies of the diocesan policy are available through your local parish and on the diocesan website. If you have any questions about the Diocese of La Crosse and the implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Teresa Brown at 608.791.2679 or tbrown@diolc.org.
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CCD/Confirmation:
CCD/Confirmation: Reminder- January Family Retreat has been rescheduled for February 15. Hope to see you there. On February 18 (Ash Wednesday) all students will attend the Ash Wednesday Mass. No regular classes.
Tradition Corner:
Tradition Corner – February is the month we celebrate the Holy Family. This is a great month to start traditions that will stay with yourself and/or family for a lifetime. Some ideas from the Holy Family’s way of life: Rosary night, Saint Movie night, Mass with a special meal/treat after, Bible reading time, Catholic Trivia, there are so many things that can be done and so many resources available.
CCD/Confirmation: Reminder- January Family Retreat has been rescheduled for February 15. Hope to see you there. On February 18 (Ash Wednesday) all students will attend the Ash Wednesday Mass. No regular classes.
Are you being called? Looking for those willing to lead a Bible Studies for kids. Please reach out by phone/text 715 530-3225 or email to ssppcre@gmail.com.
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Wanted: Looking for those wanting to lead Studies. Please send what you would like to do to 715 530-3225 or email to ssppcre@gmail.com
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If you have any memories or traditions you would like to see, please send them to ssppcre@gmail.com
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St. FAUSTINA ADULT STUDY GROUP
A study group highlighting the life and diary of St. Faustina, including Divine Mercy, will start in September, dates to be determined if we have enough interest. This study is most appropriate for interested adults now that we have a first class relic of her.
Contact Marge if you are interested in attending: mbaecker@ssppwi.org or call or text 715-538-3638.
DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE GUIDELINES FOR REPORTING INSTANCES OF CHILD ABUSE:
The Diocese of La Crosse, through its policies and procedures, seeks to provide a prompt, appropriate and compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (bishop, priest, deacon, employee, religious, vendor or volunteer). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of sexual abuse should send that report to Mrs. Teresa Brown, Complaint Intake Agent, at the Diocese of
La Crosse, P.O. Box 4004, La Crosse, WI 54602-4004. Alternatively, you can contact Mrs. Brown at 608.791.0179 or intakeagent@diolc.org.
The reporting form is available through the Diocese of La Crosse Office of Safe Environment or on the diocesan website at: diolc.org/safe-environment/reporting. Individuals are also encouraged to take their reports directly to civil authorities. Copies of the diocesan policy are available through your local Parish and on the diocesan website.
If you have any questions about the Diocese of La Crosse and the implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Teresa Brown, Diocese of La Crosse, at 608.791.2679 or tbrown@diolc.org .
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If you have a birthday during the month of February come to Mass the first weekend to SS Peter & Paul Church. Father
will invite all children to come forward to receive a birthday blessing.
Adults can stand or come forward and also receive this special blessing. The parish will then sing Happy Birthday. Let us all celebrate Life and your Birthday’s.
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WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES —
If you were married in the month of February, please call Julie at the Rectory (715-985-2227) and let her know the number of years you have been married. Blessings will be given on February 21st and February 22nd Masses.
ST. JOHN'S MASS TIMES
Tuesday: 4:30 pm
Friday: 9:00 am
Sunday: 8:15 am
STS. PETER & PAUL MASS TIMES
Tuesday: 8:30 am
Wednesday: 8:30 am
Thursday: 8:30 am
Friday: 7:00 am
Saturday: 4:00 pm (5:00 pm During Daylight Saving Time)
Sunday: 10:15 am
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION
St. John's: Sunday 7:45 - 8:15 am
Sts. Peter & Paul: Saturday 3:00pm –4:00 pm