· Congratulations… to our new Pastor, Fr. Mike Ackerman! Fr. Mike is officially installed as pastor of Resurrection Parish at our 4:00 p.m. Mass this weekend at St. Thomas More by Bishop David Zubik. We thank Bishop Zubik for his presence with us this weekend, and all who gather for this celebration. (Personally, I am here “in spirit” today, since I am on vacation this week doing “beach ministry!”) May we offer Fr. Mike our support, encouragement, and prayers.

• In today’s Scriptures… the concept of “light” is stressed. In our first reading, Isaiah reminds us that “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” In the gospel, this same saying is reiterated. There is much darkness in our world and in our lives. But, if we only open the eyes of our hearts, we’ll see that Jesus brightens our lives. As we sing in today’s responsorial psalm, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” Let us live as children of the light, proclaiming God’s presence through our faith and deeds.

• Today is known as… “Sunday of the Word of God.” In 2019, Pope Francis declared that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time should be an occasion to reflect more deeply on the meaning and importance of God’s Word. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16)

• Have you seen… our new Parish signs? They were installed shortly before Christmas, and are attached to the current signage at our two church locations. The signs consist of a cross with a circle in the center identifying us as “Resurrection Parish.” Very nice!