This Sunday we celebrate the feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe as we approach the end of the liturgical year of our Church. We remember in a special way what Christ means to us, and what Christ did for us, and that we are called to serve the King of Kings.
This coming Thursday, we also celebrate Thanksgiving Day, and we are encouraged to give thanks for the many blessings that the Lord has bestowed on us. The media outlet, “Young Catholics” stated, “Thanksgiving, then, is a good time for Catholics to practice this attitude of thankfulness. It reminds us to thank God for the blessings we often take for granted – our food, our family, and our faith.” The outlet further noted, “The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2638) says that every Christian prayer should include thanksgiving. This means we should thank God at all times, not just when things are going well. God gives us every good thing. Even in hard times, we can find reasons to be grateful because God is always with us.”
As we reflect on these words, we pray that Thanksgiving Day will not be commercialized but rather will truly be a time for appreciation and thanksgiving. The word “Eucharist” means “giving thanks” and we are invited to attend Mass on Thanksgiving Day. If possible, we are also encouraged to share a meal with loved ones.
The following “A Prayer for Thanksgiving” provided by “S. Sadlier” reflects the significance of the day:
Loving God,
We turn our hearts to you on this day for giving thanks on this day mindful of your many gifts.
For each one, we are grateful.
For each one, we are blessed.
For each one we are opened to the abundance of your love.
May this Thanksgiving Day offer a reminder to be generous with others, as you are with us.
We praise you.
We rejoice in you.
We give you thanks. Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, our bishops suggest that beginning Monday, the days before Thanksgiving be set aside for deeds of charity, for penance, and for prayers for economic justice. Our bishops are painfully aware that many people are marginalized in some way and continue to suffer in these difficult and uncertain times. We can also pray that Thanksgiving Day will truly be a time to thank God for prayers answered and blessings received.
On behalf of the priests, deacons, and staff at Saint Brigid, I give thanks for our Saint Brigid faith community, and I pray that your Thanksgiving Day will be a blessed one.