Every year, our nation celebrates the Thanksgiving holiday. I can remember in grade school the time that the members of our class dressed up as pilgrims and natives as we recalled the story of the community feast in Plymouth, Mass., in the year 1621 after the pilgrim’s tough first year in North America. The traditional story includes the themes of perseverance, cooperation, thanksgiving and trust in Divine Providence.
Like many of you, I look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with my family. Of course, the holidays have changed since both of my parents have died. My brothers and I plan to get together for the meal. I am sure that we will share some happy memories of our parents.
There are many verses in Scripture that encourage thankfulness. Included among these is the following: “To you will I offer sacrifice of thanksgiving, and I will call upon the name of the Lord.” (Ps 116:17)
Most people have probably heard that many charities receive a significant portion of their yearly budget in donations between Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is, therefore, an appropriate time for us to review our level of stewardship. We should begin with the premise that ‘All is a gift.’
Thanksgiving should remind us that we have a lot to be thankful for. As we reflect on our blessings, we should continually seek ways to serve God and our brothers and sisters of this world.
The Holy Eucharist is, of course, our spiritual connection with the sacrifice of our redemption and is always a celebration of thanks and praise. We are encouraged to make use of our opportunities to serve God and others in need. Piety and Charity are fruits of the Holy Eucharist.
All are invited to the bilingual Mass on Thanksgiving Day at 10 a.m., which is always a joyful Mass for me. We are one family in faith.
Father Mark Lawlor is the pastor of St. Thérèse Church in Mooresville.