Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Later this week, we as a nation and society will celebrate a holiday somewhat unique to the American tradition. Whereas other cultures may have some form of showing gratitude in a unified way, none quite do it like American Thanksgiving. But we as Catholics sit a particular
faith-based outlook on thanksgiving, as much of our liturgy is centered directly on that same concept.
What do I mean by saying Catholics are centered on thanksgiving? Well, it’s right there, whether we realize it or not. The Church is abundantly clear in saying that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives. Without the Eucharist and the Mass, we would be in a whole heap of trouble not having access to the greatest source of grace we can encounter, Jesus Christ Himself, in the appearance of bread and wine. It’s with that in mind that the Church is so insistent that we avail ourselves to the Eucharist so frequently. We need it in our lives and the recognition of that reality changes our perspective on how daily living. But that still doesn’t answer how Catholics are centered on thanksgiving, unless you happen to be up on your Greek.
The word for thanksgiving in Greek is eucharistia, the very same word we use for the Eucharist. And indeed, the entire liturgy of the Mass is couched in language of giving thanks to God throughout it. As such, part of what we do when we are present at Mass is not only to be
nourished by the Bread of Life, as critical as that is; it’s also our opportunity to be thankful to God in our praise and worship of him. Doing so is so necessary for us and our lives. If we don’t recognize and show gratitude for the good things that God gives us in our lives, we’re missing the mark in terms of what God invites to.
I think St. Ambrose says it well when he said the following, “No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks.” When we experience the good; from God, from our loved ones, from those around us, it’s not just polite to say ‘thank you,’ it’s imperative. It’s so important that we’ve
dedicated an entire national holiday to that principle, to ensure we’re returning thanks for all aspects of our lives. But my friends, as wonderful as the holiday Thanksgiving is, it doesn’t have to be a mere annual tradition to be mindful and to return thanks. We can do so on a weekly, daily, sometimes hourly basis. That, I believe, is very much in line with our Catholic perspective.
And so, this week, as we prepare to share a beautiful meal and gathering with loved ones for Thanksgiving, I would encourage us all to be aware that Thanksgiving is more than turkey on a Thursday, but a way to approach daily life returning thanks to God and others.
Peace and Goodness,
Fr. Dan
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