Let us give thanks to the Lord

From the Desk of Father David

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

              This week we celebrate Thanksgiving Day.  To give thanks to God and others is a special gift.  In the Bible there are 171 references tied to giving thanks.  The word Eucharist means to give thanks.  In every Eucharist at the beginning of the Preface the priest says “Let us give thanks to the Lord” and you respond “it is right and just.” At most Masses the priest continues with, “it is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks…” The Scriptures along with the Church reminds us of how important it is to always give thanks.  When we give thanks to God or others, we realize that we are blessed by the person we are thanking.  It helps the other person realize that we appreciate them.  This action also moves us from the darkness of our problems to the light of God’s presence.  For all blessings flow from the hand of God.  Sometimes these blessings flow directly from Him, other times they flow through others to us. 

There are many uncertainties about the upcoming holidays, but what is definite is that God’s love will hold us all together even if we are physically separated.  May we be creative on staying in touch and most importantly take time to count our blessings; the everyday blessings of food, shelter,  and take time to discover God’s unique action in our lives.  What blessings have you received over these past months? How did God powerfully touch your life today? In the words of St. Paul, “give thanks always.”

I thank God for the gift you are and for the wonderful ways you are a blessing for the parish and myself.  Asking God to bless you and your loved ones with a Blessed Thanksgiving Day and may He keep you close to each other in His loving heart.

With a grateful heart,

Fr. David