Second Sunday in

Ordinary Time



Pastor’s Notes

With the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord behind us, the Church now enters Ordinary Time—not a season of spiritual “plainness,” but a sacred time where the mystery of Christ is lived out in daily life. The readings for this Second Sunday in Ordinary Time invite us to contemplate the identity of Jesus and our response to Him.

The Gospel places us beside John the Baptist as he points to Jesus and proclaims, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). This title is rich with meaning. Jesus is the Lamb foretold in Scripture—the innocent one offered for the salvation of many. From the very start of His public ministry, we are reminded that His mission is rooted in sacrifice, mercy, and redemption. Jesus does not come to dominate or impress, but to give His life for the healing of the world.

John the Baptist’s role is essential. He openly admits that he did not fully know who Jesus was until God revealed Him through the Spirit. Yet once he recognizes Christ, John steps aside and allows Jesus to take center stage. This humility challenges us to examine our own discipleship. Do we seek recognition for ourselves, or do our words and actions direct others toward Christ? True witnesses always point beyond the self.



The first reading from Isaiah speaks of the servant chosen by God, formed from the womb, and called to be “a light to the nations.” While this prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, it also speaks to the mission entrusted to us through Baptism. Every Christian is called not only to belong to God but to reflect His light in the world. Faith is never meant to be private or hidden; it is meant to illuminate darkness through love, justice, and compassion.

Saint Paul, writing to the Corinthians, reminds them—and us—that we are “called to be holy.” Holiness is not reserved for saints of the past or those in religious life alone. It is the daily vocation of every believer. Ordinary Time is where holiness takes shape: in faithful work, honest relationships, patience in suffering, forgiveness offered and received, and trust in God’s will.

The Responsorial Psalm expresses the proper response to God’s call: “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.” This simple prayer captures the heart of discipleship. To recognize Jesus as the Lamb of God is not merely to admire Him, but to follow Him—to shape our lives according to His example of self-giving love.

As we continue our journey through Ordinary Time, may we learn, like John the Baptist, to recognize Christ more clearly and to point others toward Him. May our lives echo the faith we profess, so that through us, the Lamb of God may be seen and known in the world today.

Fr. George G. Perez, CJM

ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL



Thank you for your wonderful support of the 2025

“Advancing Our Mission" Annual Catholic Appeal

Campaign!

On February 14 the 2026 campaign

“In Mission, We Are One” will begin and run thru December 31, 2026.

Our assessment is $110,499 this year. 

Together, United in Christ we continue the Church Mission of Service, Evangelization and Hope.  

Pope Leo XIV Gives an Important Speech to the World

In his first annual “State of the World” address, Pope Leo speaks to Vatican-accredited envoys from 184 countries, confronting wars, diplomacy, free speech, conscience, and global disorder. The speech outlines his vision for peace, multilateralism, and human dignity at a time of mounting global tensions.



The talk is about 44 minutes long, but it is given in English. Take some time to listen to this important teaching on the moral issues that face the governance of nations.

Clothing Drive

As a part her participation in the National Catholic Youth Council, Natalie Myers has organized a clothing drive to help families in need. Here is how you can help.

Ecumenical Prayer Service

During the week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the churches of North County are once again invited to come together for an Evening Prayer Service on Tuesday, January 27 at 6:30 pm at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Encinitas. The service will be led by clergy members from the various Christian churches. St. Patrick’s Choir will once again form the core of an ecumenical choir that will lead us in song. The theme is One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. Some time for fellowship will follow the service. 

St. Pat’s has traditionally been a leader in this annual prayer service. Join Fr. Ron and our choir on January 27. With one heart and voice let us praise the Lord.

Fr. Ron to Offer Course on the Nicene Creed

Beginning on February 3, Fr. Ron Bagley will offer a six-week course on the Nicene Creed. If interested, register through the Diocesan Institute. Note that there is a text book for this course that students will need to order online. Contact Fr. Ron with questions.

James R. & Geraldine F. Bertelsen Scholarship

These $10,000 scholarships are open to high school seniors and current college students who will be attending a four-year Roman Catholic college or university for the 2026-2027 academic year. Students must live in Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos or Encinitas to be eligible.

The Bertelsen Scholarship will be available on the San Diego Foundation’s on-line Common Scholarship Application starting on January 14, 2026, with a submission deadline of March 4, 2026 by 2 PM PST. 

Email scholarships@sdfoundation.org

or call 619-814-1343 if you have additional questions.



The application link available to students for the Bertelsen Scholarship and other scholarships can be found here: 

Online Giving Reminder

If you currently use Online Giving for your electronic giving, please make sure you login to the application frequently to make sure your payment method is current and your donations are being processed.

Click on the Online Giving icon below to create or access your account.

Catholic Trivia

"Catholic Trivia”... not because they are trivial but because these might be things that not everyone knows. Test your knowledge by reading the five questions, remember your answers (or jot them down), then click the link below to find the answers.

1. According to tradition, at what age did Jesus begin his public ministry?
2. For how many years did he go about preaching and working signs of God’s Reign?
3. How many disciples did Jesus call to be apostles?
4. What are the names of the apostles called by Jesus?
5. Who was the person chosen to be an apostle to replace the one who betrayed Jesus and killed himself?



Feel free to email Fr. Ron with ideas for future Catholic Trivia questions rmbagley@yahoo.com