From the Pastor's Desk:

My Dear Parishioners,

Today we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord.

The First Reading from Isaiah, and it is one of the "Servant of the Lord " prophecies. It speaks about the role of the Messiah: The One Whom God has chosen as a servant to bring light to the nations, healing to the distressed, freedom to those in bondage. It is because the Spirit of God is present in the life of this Servant that these things will be accomplished.

The Gospel is Matthew's account of the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. John recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, The One greater than himself. John tries to have Jesus baptize him instead of John baptizing Jesus. Jesus' relationship with fullness of the Godhead is evident. A Voice speaks from heaven: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." The Holy Spirit appears as a dove. The fullness of the Trinity is evident. Jesus is manifested as the Son of God, the Anointed One. This is truly a turning point in the life of Jesus. He transitions from the role of carpenter to the ministry of service and proclaimer of the Good News.

So today, we are reminded, that as a result of the Baptism, not only are the sins we committed before Baptism removed, not only do we become members of the Church, not only do we become sons/daughters of God but, also we share in the mission and ministry of Jesus, the Priest, the Prophet, and the King. This is a privilege, a gift, and also a responsibility. Let us thank God for this special blessing we have received.

May you continue to live out your mission as a follower of Jesus and son/daughter of God the Father. Amen!

God Bless You,

Fr. George, MSFS

LITURGICAL SCHEDULE:

Sts. peter & paul Catholic Parish

AnnouncementS

Weekend Mass Schedule:

Saturday, January 10, 2026...

4:00 pm

Sunday, January 11, 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

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CCD/Confirmation:

Tradition Corner:

Rosary for a Week: Looking willing participants to take home Our Lady and say the Rosary for a week. Please contact Cris at 715-530-1404 for sign up or any questions. If you are interested in making a rosary for your household, please state so when you sign up.

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

CCD/Confirmation: Reminder- January 17-18 Family Retreat has been cancelled.

Parents Meeting for students receiving 1st Communion this year Wednesday, January, 21 from 5:30-6:30.

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Tradition Corner: IHS that in Christian art symbolizing Jesus’ name actually has misunderstanding around it. It was thought to be Latin for Jesus Holmium Salvator (I.H.S.) but is actually the first three letters in Greek for Jesus- ΙΗΣΟΥΣ.

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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 January 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 January, 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 January 24th and January 25th Masses.