Feast of St. Stephen

Readings of the Day

As we are all likely still reeling from a busy and hectic Christmas season, I am humbly reminded that the wonderful work and beautiful outcomes we help achieve for those we serve is only possible by the foundations laid by those who preceded us in our roles. We all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and someday, God willing, others will stand on our shoulders to continue to serve the needs of some of God’s most vulnerable children – our sisters and brothers in need of dignity, compassion and meaningful resources to try to live fruitfully and happy, as God intends for all of us.

St. Stephen, who we read was filled with grace and power, was rejected and likely intimidated those who saw him as a threat to the status quo of the times. We all know that our missions today are often seen as unpopular, especially in the world of polarity and indifference to the plight of immigrants and refugees who may endure unspeakable tragedies and often suffer in silence. Like Stephen, we must ask the Christ Child for His simple stare of grace, unconditional love and faith, so that our hearts may not waiver or become fatigued in spite of the tidal waves of threats to the human spirit that so many of our clients must endure, including our team members who walk with them.

Let us ask our Lord and Savior for the same courage and spirit that St. Stephen and countless martyrs and saints who continue to lead us by example in being messengers of mercy, compassion and love in a world that so desperately needs it.

Deacon Tom Roberts is the President and CEO of Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada.

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