Dear Parish Family, Many times we simply have to open our eyes and see a bright spot in our day. These come in many shapes and forms. Cleaning my lenses produced bright spots each and every day of this past week. The names could have been Tom, Dick, Harry and Sally, but they were not – they were Gary, Maureen, Toni, Michael, Joyce, Anne, Fr. Stanley, Larry, and Brother Al. These bright spots show the love of God to those around us. A helping hand to someone struggling with walking. And in return, a happy smiling face accompanied by one of their humorous quips. A yummy homemade cake to celebrate a priest’s birthday. Kind words regarding the stewardship of our parish. The love of one of our senior parishioners and her concern for prayers of the sick. A shining star who always finds love in one another. The last roses of the season, brought to brighten the office. A diet coke delivered from someone who is always thinking of others. The faith, wisdom, and talent of a Franciscan Brother radiating in our worship space. We are encouraged in Psalm 100:2 “To worship the Lord with gladness, and come before Him with joyful songs.” Bright spots, bring thoughts of joyful songs? These people and many others, did and do this, through random acts of kindness and encouragement, creating a powerful effect. Are you a bright spot? Do you show the love of God to those around you? Kindness invokes care, charity, generosity, helpfulness, mercy, patience, and understanding. Practicing these virtues demonstrate the love of Jesus and enduring relevance of His teaching. In Galatian’s 5:22 , we know “kindness is the fruit of the Holy Spirit.” This is yet, another way to Unleash the Gospel by sharing with others. With a big smile, I am seeing bright spots everywhere! Mary Jo