You are the salt of the Earth… You are the light of the World.” – Matthew 5:13-14

Recently during my quiet time in prayer, I reflected on the Beatitudes, Christ’s teachings on authentic Christian discipleship. He began his instruction by saying, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” Jesus goes on to tell them that they are also the salt of the Earth. What an incredible concept. But what does it mean?

During the time of Christ, salt was a vital element. It was used to preserve food, sustaining the lives of many during times of drought or famine. It was so important that Romans used salt as currency in many regions. This is what Christ meant for His disciples. They were the vital element to build and sustain Christ’s Church on Earth. They were called to preserve Christ’s teachings and spread the Gospel to all nations.

We too are to be the salt of the Earth. As disciples ourselves, we are called to spread the Gospel, especially those who are in need of God’s love and light. In service to others, we share His light, compassion, and love with those who need it most throughout our state.

You help the Church in its ministry throughout our state and share His grace with those most in need through your support of the Catholic Sharing Appeal (CSA).

When you give to the CSA, you put your faith into deeds and help deliver shared ministries of our local Church. You enliven parishes. You help support the education of students in all 24 of our Catholic schools, and you expand outreach efforts to every corner of our state. You are contributing to those around you, inspiring others to do the same, and sharing His light and love through your commitment to Catholic ministries.

As we begin a new year, I’d like to say thank you for your past support of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Your generosity changed the lives of those around you and I am so grateful for you! Will you put your faith into action once again by supporting our annual Catholic Sharing Appeal today?

Through our actions, each of us can be the salt of the Earth and the light of the world simply by caring for those around us and sharing the Good News throughout our state. May God continue to bless you and your family in this new year, and know my prayers are with you always.

With kindest personal regards, I remain,

Sincerely in Christ,

+Mark E. Brennan
Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston

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