Monday of the Second Week of Advent
Today many Catholics around the world celebrate the Feast of St. Nicholas, a saint known for his generosity and faith. He is often commemorated through gift-giving or other acts of kindness. There’s something magical about a child waking up to see their shoes filled with goodies, delighted to be remembered and included in such a special act of love. While St. Nicholas day comes but once a year, we have the opportunity to extend kindness and generosity every day. We have the privilege in our work at Catholic Charities agencies, parishes, and social ministries to bless our clients with the gifts of housing, food, education, and legal support. We see relief and gratitude shine brightly across the faces of our clients when we respond to their needs in a time of crisis. The delight of a child, the relief and gratitude of our clients – these are glimpses of hope. Hope not just in a momentary act of kindness and generosity but hope in a love far greater than we can imagine. Hope in a Savior. Hope that “those whom the Lord has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; They will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee” (Is 35:10). Let us continue to spread love and hope to all those we encounter during this season and beyond. Allison Cavazos is the Associate Director of Parish Relations for Catholic Charities of Central Texas in Austin and chair of the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Leadership Team. |
|
View this message in your browser. |
