Dear Parishioners,
 
Today we begin hearing from the gospel of St. Luke.  Luke was a Gentile, and he has the unique distinction of being the only New Testament writer who was not Jewish.  Luke writes in very proper Greek.  He was a physician (Colossians 4:14).  He was a trusted companion of St. Paul, being imprisoned for 2 years with Paul in Caesarea. During those long days, Luke must have had deep conversations with Paul about the life of Jesus.  In Luke's gospel, we find an emphasis on the human nature of Jesus; his compassion for sinners and for those who are suffering.  Luke writes about Jesus reaching out to Samaritans (hated by the Jews), tax collectors, lepers, and the poor.  The role of women in Christ's ministry is more emphasized in Luke than in the other gospel writings.  Luke can be called the "gospel of old people!" because he begins his gospel by telling us about 2 elderly people who have been faithful to God for their whole lives—Zachariah and Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist.  Later on, when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple for the circumcision, Luke writes about 2 more elderly faithful people, Simeon and Anna (a prophetess).  Take some quiet time to read the gospel of Luke this week!
 
Thank you for your very generous contributions to St. Margaret’s Church in 2018!  We are most grateful to you for your faithful support. Your contributions help us keep our programs running and buildings in good repair. The Yearly Contribution Statements will be mailed out in two weeks. You may call the office at 749-2542 or email:[email protected] with any questions.
 
Many thanks. God Bless You, Fr. Paul J. Alciati