WELCOME TO THIS WEEK'S FLOCKNOTE
“Salt, Light, and a Life That Speaks”
In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives His disciples a new identity. He does not say, “Try to become salt” or “Aim to be light.” He says plainly:“You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.”This is who we are because we belong to Him. Salt and light do not exist for themselves. Salt gives flavor and preserves; light reveals and guides. In the same way, a disciple of Christ is not called to live a private or self-centred faith, but a faith that touches, heals, and transforms the world.
This identity finds its challenge and clarity in the words of the prophet Isaiah. God rejects empty religion and speaks clearly about the fast He desires:
to break unjust chains, to share bread with the hungry, to shelter the homeless, to clothe the naked,and to care for our own brothers and sisters.
Here, God teaches us that true worship is lived out in justice, mercy, and compassion. A faith that does not change how we treat others loses its flavor just like salt that has gone flat.
Saint Paul, in the second reading, reminds us that this Christian life is not built on impressive words or human wisdom. He came with simplicity, humility, and trust in the power of God. The light we shine is not our own brilliance; it is the light of Christ working through ordinary people who depend on Him.
When we live this way, Isaiah’s promise is fulfilled:“Then your light shall break forth like the dawn.”Our good works do not point to us, but to God. As Jesus says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may glorify your Father in heaven.
As followers of Christ we are to know that:
1. Our identity comes before our activity . We act as salt and light because we belong to Christ.
2. Faith must be visible . Prayer without charity, and worship without justice, are incomplete.
3. Small acts matter – Feeding, forgiving, visiting, listening—these are powerful ways of shining Christ’s light.
4. Humility strengthens witness– God’s power is revealed when we rely on Him, not on ourselves.
Dear brothers and sisters, to follow Jesus is to accept this identity and its demands. The world does not need louder Christians, but truer ones, disciples whose lives make God’s love believable. If we allow Christ to season our lives with love and set our hearts on fire with His light, then the world will see, and God will be glorified.
Your Priest,
Father Anthony
Please do not hesitate to contact Father Charles (frenyinnia@yahoo.com) (613-328-8331), Father Anthony (dimtony3482@gmail.com) (613-200-5357) or the parish office (stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca ) (613-267-1043), if we can be of any assistance to you in any way. We are very glad to respond to a request for prayers, the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession, Sick Calls and/or Conversation.
Pope Leo XIV: Prayer Intention for February
In his prayer intention for February 2026, Pope Leo XIV: For children with incurable diseases. Let us pray that children suffering from incurable diseases and their families receive the necessary medical care and support, never losing strength and hope.
34th World Day of the Sick
Pope Leo XIV’s message for the 34th World Day of the Sick, which will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, offers a reflection on the theme “The compassion of the Samaritan: loving by bearing another’s pain”. In his message, the Holy Father offers and implores us to “raise our prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Health of the Sick, asking her to assist all who suffer and are in need of compassion, consolation and a listening ear. Let us seek her intercession with this ancient prayer, that has been invoked in families for those living with illness and pain”:
Sweet Mother, do not part from me. Turn not your eyes away from me. Walk with me at every moment and never leave me alone. You who always protect me as a true Mother, obtain for me the blessing of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.
WELCOME HOME, FR. CHARLES! We hope that you’ve enjoyed a wonderful and rejuvenating time with friends & family back home in Nigeria. With grateful hearts, we warmly welcome you back home to (chilly) Canada!
THIS WEEK: (See Upcoming Events for more details).
First Communion & Reconciliation Candidates: The next class will be this
Sunday, February 8th, beginning with 11am mass, followed by class in the Narthex
CWL Monthly Meeting - Monday, February 9th@ 7pm, All welcome!
St. John's Movie Club - The Saint John's Movie Club will be holding its next meeting on Friday, February 13th at 7:00pm, at 15 Church St.
Community Dinner: Saturday, February 14th, 4:30-5:30pm, or until they run out of food. St. James Anglican Church. Goodwill offering appreciated.
Ash Wednesday is on February 18th, just a couple weeks away! In anticipation of this season of renewal, please return last year’s palms.
REMINDER – FOOD DONATIONS for The Table continue to be collected in the baskets(church entrance). Your generosity can make a real difference!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! We are grateful to the volunteers who have generously stepped up to assist with St. John's cleaning & we would appreciate more help.
St. John’s 2025 Income Tax Statements: A reminder that 2025 income tax statements are available for pickup in the narthex.
Important Notice: Please take care when parking to ensure our neighbours driveways remain accessible.
Confessions are available 30 minutes before each regular Daily & Weekend Mass.
PASTORAL CARE: Any parishioner or family member unable to attend Mass and would like a home visit please call Parish Office at 613-267-1043.
Reminder: Allergy Alert! Please Avoid Strong Scents when at Church
Please avoid perfume, shaving lotion and scents when at church. Some people have allergies that prevent them from attending or remaining at Mass if the above are present. Thank you for your consideration..
SUBMISSIONS FOR WEEKLY BULLETIN & Parish Office Hours
Mondays (closed),
Tues., Wed., Fri., (9:30am - Noon & 1:00 - 3:30pm)
Thurs. 1:00- 3:30pm
(613-267-1043) ( stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca )
MASS SCHEDULE -
(First) Friday February 6 - St. Paul Miki & Companions
SJ 8:30am - Prayer for the Sick & Suffering
SJ 9:00am - Int. of Norah Fox ~ Suzanne Luciano
SJ 9:30am - Holy Adoration & Benediction
(First) Saturday February 7
SJ 9:00am - Jayden Dowdall ~ Jason, Julie, & Justin Dowdall
SJ 5:00pm - In thanks to St. Jude ~ Bonnie Switzer
Sunday February 8 - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
SJ 9:00am - Mass for the People of the Parish
SHP 9:00am - Helen Cameron ~ Doris Quinn
SB 11:00am - Mel Bush ~ Jean McShane
SJ 11:00am - Des McKenna ~ Ann Buchanan
Monday February 9
SJ 8:30am - Prayer for the Sick & Suffering
Tuesday February 10 - St. Scholastica
SB 9:00am - For God’s Healing ~
SJ 4:30pm - Pilon & Crawford Families ~ Ken & Lucille Crawford
Wednesday February 11
SJ 9:00am - Rev. Les & Fran Cavalier ~ Elaine Cavalier
LL 10:00am - Lanark Lodge Mass
Thursday February 12
SHP 9:00am - Int. of Fr. Paul Mawalla ~ A Friend
SJ 12:00 pm - Gerry & Genina Sherwin ~ Allida Rubino
Friday February 13
SJ 8:30am - Prayer for the Sick & Suffering
SJ 9:00am - Theresa Somerville ~ Mary Somerville, Emily McNaughton & Jean-Paul Leblanc
SJ 9:30am - Holy Adoration & Benediction
Saturday February 14 - St. Cyril & St. Methodius
SJ 5:00pm - Marian Raczek ~ Daughter & Family
Sunday February 15 - Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
SJ 9:00am - Mass for the People of the Parish
SHP 9:00am - Melanie Leroux ~ Brian & Pat Molyneaux
SB 11:00am - Leo Pevato ~ Nina Stewart
SJ 11:00am - Jean Risk ~ Howard & Anne Pledge
MASS REQUESTS
If you have a mass request, please clearly print who the mass is for, who it is requested by, and in which church it is to be said. You can call the Parish Office (613-267-1043), mail, or email your request to stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca . Please note, unless there is a special circumstance that has been cleared with the Parish Office, we cannot accommodate requests for specific dates due to the high volume of mass requests. Please watch your Flock Notes. Leave the stipend in the offertory plate, in an envelope clearly marked “Mass Intentions” with who the mass is for and who it is from (inside with your money), or you can mail/drop off directly at the Parish Office. Stipend: Announced ($20); Unannounced ($10) which are sent away to a mission. Thank you!
DONATING TO ST. JOHN
To make a donation to St John Church, please remember to add your envelope number, church and what to apply your monies towards.
We gratefully accept donations by:
Cash or cheque: Mail in, Drop In, or Offertory basket
E-transfers: stjohnperthdonations@gmail.com
DONATING TO SACRED HEART & ST. BRIDGET
To make a donation please remember to add your envelope number, church and what to apply your monies towards.
We gratefully accept donations by:
Cash or cheque: Mail in, Drop In, or Offertory basket
E-transfers: sacredheart1903@gmail.com *** When sending an etransfer, please make a note which church the donation is for and your envelope number, if applicable ***
PRAYERS
Please remember the sick in your prayers, including Maureen Czop, Jeannette Olivier, Marjorie Facette, Edith Lepine, Doris Quinn, Claudette Timmerman, Mary Rorwick, Stephen Tysick, Susan Beaudoin Watson, David Small, Barbara Morrison, & Fr. Stan Alanen.
Please remember those who have recently died in your prayers, especially Janice Rutherford & Dr. Edward O’Brien, brother of Archbishop O’Brien.
Jesus, I trust in You.
Need a prayer?
Are you or someone you love in need of prayer? Contact
Father Charles (frenyinnia@yahoo.com) (613-328-8331), Father Anthony (dimtony3482@gmail.com) (613-200-5357) or the Parish Office (stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca) to connect with our strong prayer warriors or directly to:
- St John’s Pastoral Care Prayer group: Parish Office 613-267-1043
- St John’s Divine Mercy Chaplet Prayer group: Lianne Kevan 613-200-1242
- St John’s CWL Prayer group; Parish Office 613-267-1043
- St John’s KOC Prayer group; Parish Office 613-267-1043
SACRAMENTS:
First Communion & Reconciliation Candidates:
The next class will be February 8th, and begins with the 11am mass, followed by class in the Narthex.
Confirmation Candidates:
The next class will be February 22nd, and begins with the 11am mass, followed by class in the Narthex.
Baptism, Funeral and Marriage
Please contact the Parish Office directly (613-267-1043)(stjohn.perth@archkingston.ca). Please use the parish website to sign up or contact the parish office for details. (For Marriage at least 6 months in advance notice is required.)
REMINDER – FOOD DONATIONS Food donations for The Table continue to be collected in the baskets in the church entrance. A representative of
the St. John’s CWL also accepts donations on the first weekend of each month. Your generosity can make a real difference in our community, please consider making a donation!
Lent is Almost Upon Us!
Ash Wednesday is on February 18th, just a couple weeks away! In anticipation of this season of renewal, please return last year’s palms. Buckets are located throughout the church.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We are grateful to the volunteers who have generously stepped up to assist with church cleaning. Their help has been a true blessing. However, this important work cannot be carried by a few alone, and we are seeking additional volunteers to join them. Even one hour a week can make a meaningful difference.
If you are able to help, please contact the parish office. Thank you once again to all who continue to serve our parish with such generosity and care.
Important Notice
Our St. John’s Church neighbours have been affected by vehicles blocking their driveways during Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses. Please take care when parking to ensure driveways remain accessible.
Important Notice
All users of the St. John’s Meeting Place (15 Church Street) are kindly reminded to turn down the thermostat when leaving the building. Our hydro costs in November and December were significantly higher than this time last year, and your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Thank you. ***
ANNOUNCEMENTS
200th Anniversary of the Archdiocese of Kingston The Jubilee Year Begins!
We began our celebrations for the 200th Anniversary Jubilee of the Archdiocese of
Kingston on Monday, December 8th! Jubilee celebrations will take place
throughout the year at the Parish, Deanery, and Archdiocesan levels. Keep an eye on the bulletin & Flocknote for parish and deanery events to come! Archdiocesan events can be found in the Fall edition of Journey, which can be found in your church today!
We began our celebrations for the 200th Anniversary Jubilee of the Archdiocese of
Kingston on Monday, December 8th! Jubilee celebrations will take place
throughout the year at the Parish, Deanery, and Archdiocesan levels. Keep an eye on the bulletin & Flocknote for parish and deanery events to come! Archdiocesan events can be found in the Fall edition of Journey, which can be found in your church today!
St. John’s 2025 Income Tax Statements: A reminder that 2025 income tax statements are available for pickup in the narthex. Please note that tax receipts are not being emailed, except by special request to the parish office, in order to ensure reliable delivery to all parishioners.
INVITATION TO EXPLORE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
Learn About the Catholic FaithIndividuals seeking to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Church, including its teachings and practices, are warmly invited to participate in a dedicated series of sessions.
Session Details: Tuesday evenings, at 7 pm at 15 Church St
What to Expect: OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation – formerly RCIA) sessions offer an engaging experience that includes viewing videos, participating in thoughtful conversations, and reflecting on various aspects of the Catholic faith.
Open Invitation: Everyone is welcome to attend and explore this journey of faith.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
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St. John's Movie Club - The Saint John's Movie Club will be holding its next meeting on Friday, February 13th at 7:00pm, at 15 Church St. Every meeting, we watch a film together and have group discussion about the meaning of the film and art in general afterward. For more information, contact Anthony: adellazazzera@gmail.com.
Retrouvaille: A Lifeline for Troubled Marriages:
This program is designed to support marriages in crisis and can be of assistance to couples who have separated but are willing to work on their relationship to help repair the difficulties that exist. Upcoming in-person weekends:
o Hamilton Community - English weekend Mar 13 to Mar 15, 2026 (Niagara Falls) For more details or to register, see posters in church or this weeks’ Flocknote.
o Toronto Community - Spanish weekend Mar 20 to Mar 22, 2026 (Mississauga) For more details or to register, see posters in church.
✞ Medjugorje Pilgrimage:
April 20 - May 1, 2026. Join us this Easter season for a grace-filled pilgrimage to Medjugorje, with a 2-night stay in beautiful Dubrovnik. Cost: $2,830 CAD (double) • Single: +$350. Includes: Flights, hotels, daily breakfast & dinner, transfers, parish-trained guide, daily Mass & excursions.
Info & Registration: Karen Shannon – 613-848-5833/Karen.Shannon@queensu.ca See posters.
Notifications
FOOD BANK
Please consider donating food items to our local Food Bank. There is a bin to receive your donations located in the front entrances of both St. John’s and Sacred Heart Churches. Thank you for your generosity!
COMMUNITY MEALS
✞ Dine-in meals every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 4:30-6:00pm @ The Table (190 Gore St. East).
✞ Dine-in meals on the second Saturday of each month (excluding July & August) 4:30-5:30pm @ St. James Church (54 Beckwith St. East).
Our Life Matters Core Group will offer the 9am Mass on third Wednesday of the month for the Protection of All Human Life. Mass to be followed by a Rosary in Reverence for Life. Everyone is welcome!
St. John's Holy Face Group:
St. John's Holy Face Group (meets on the last Thursday of the month) following the noon Mass. Our monthly gatherings will last no longer than one hour and will provide an opportunity to pray, share and learn about this powerful, Church-approved Holy Face devotion of reparation. All are welcome to join us whenever you are able. Bring a friend and help rekindle this centuries-old devotion meant for these times! For more information, please call Elaine, 613-267-1023.
Parish Volunteers Needed
Mass Helpers ~ Contact: Ushers (Marie White), Choir members, Readers/Communion (Mark Kennedy), Altar Server/Volunteer Screening (Brian Brosso) or Parish Office. Also, Weekend Mass Choir Members.
Collection Counter ~ We are looking for volunteers to help count the collection or to be a spare collection counter. The commitment is approximately once/month after the Sunday 11am Mass for 30-35 minutes. If interested, please contact the Parish office.
COMMITTEES, MINISTRIES & GROUP
St. John's Life Matters Group: CLICK
UPCOMING MEETINGS
CWL Monthly Meeting - 2nd Monday of each Month @ 7pm Monday, February 9th
Monday Bible Study Group @ 10am – Contact Jenny Salte for details. Parish Council Monthly Meeting - 2nd Tuesday of each month @ 6:30pm,
Life Matters Monthly Meeting - 2nd Wednesday of each month @ 10:30am
Knights of Columbus Monthly Meeting - 2nd Wednesday of each month @ 7pm
Pastoral Care Committee Meeting - TBD
Wednesday Bible Study Group – Contact Jenny Salte for details. Wednesdays @ 7pm
St. John's Holy Face Group Monthly Meeting: Last Thursday of the month, after noon Mass
Thursday Bible Study Group @ 1 pm – Contact Evelyn Goodfellow for details.
Thursday Bible Study Group @ 1 pm – Contact Evelyn Goodfellow for details.
Sunday Mass 11am Choir - Thursdays @ 7pm & Sundays @ 10:15am
St. John’s Movie Club - Friday, February 13th @7pm
Life Matters Men’s Group Monthly Meeting – Contact Dave Lapointe - 3rd Saturday
Life Matters Men’s Group Monthly Meeting – Contact Dave Lapointe - 3rd Saturday
Saturday Mass 5:00pm Choir - Saturdays @ 4:45pm
CONTACT INFORMATION
St. John the Baptist Parish
Parish Council Chair: Sandra Stewart 613-812-3870
Property & Finance Chair: Doug James 613-267-5520
CWL: Colleen Donohue 613-264-0227
Sacramental Preparation & Bible Study: Jenny Salte 613-264-7794
Sacred Heart Parish
Parish Council Chair: Doris Quinn 613-256-1119
Property & Finance Chair: Eadie Lafreniere: 613-259-5506
St. Bridget Parish
Parish Council Chair: Bill Mackler 613-267-3450
Property & Finance Chair: Mark Noonan 613-267-3382
CWL: Krystyna Williamson 613-264-1908
Knights of Columbus
Grand Knight: Mike Goebel 613-267-7812
Cemeteries
St. John: Ann Buchanan 613-264-2929
Sacred Heart: Don Adam 613-264-6238
St. Bridget: Diane Quinn 613-267-8081
St. Columbkill: Martin LaHaise 613-278-2115
St. Patrick: Charlie Quinn 613-253-0157
Hall Rentals
St. Bridget's (BVM) Hall: Marg McMunn 613-267-1085
Foy Hall: Claude Charetter 613-259-4783
FAITH FORMATION RESOURCES
Interested In Catholicism?
Those who are interested in finding out more about the Catholic faith with a view to possibly becoming a Catholic are asked to contact the parish office (613-267-1043).
Fr Charles would be pleased to meet with you.
FORMED.org Our Free Catholic Resource! Visit FORMED.org, login and access this parish-sponsored “Catholic Netflix” and its numerous resources for every age.
First time user? Visit FORMED. org, click Sign Up, select Belong to a Parish or Organization, find St John the Baptist Parish, Perth, ON (or Parish postal code K7H 1L6, or Parish code: 7WB8TT), enter your email & check it out!
Youth Ministry Virtual Outreach News - CLICK HERE
Check out the latest in Archdiocesan Youth news, including many faith resources for families and youth of all ages. This page is updated and added regularly.
Family Ministries and Outreach Office FEBRUARY Newsletter CLICK HERE
ARCHDIOCESE OF KINGSTON (ADK)
For More Information on Upcoming Events in the ADK CLICK HERE
✞ Archdiocese of Kingston 200th Anniversary Pilgrimage to the Holy Land: Join Fr. Justin and Fr. Price on a faith-filled pilgrimage to the Holy Land from
✞ Archdiocese of Kingston 200th Anniversary Pilgrimage to the Holy Land: Join Fr. Justin and Fr. Price on a faith-filled pilgrimage to the Holy Land from
October 5-15, 2026. Walk in the footsteps of Our Blessed Lord, deepen your understanding of Sacred Scripture, and experience prayer, mercy, healing, and spiritual renewal in the places where the Word became flesh. Space is limited to 40 pilgrims, so early registration is encouraged. Please see the itinerary in the church.
Office of Family Ministries and Outreach - CLICK HERE
A letter from Archbishop Mulhall regarding the 200th Anniversary of the Archdiocese of Kingston.
St. John's Parish Website: CLICK HERE
St. John's Facebook: CLICK HERE
Sacred Heart/St Bridget Facebook: CLICK HERE