The Heart of Christmas

Once more, we’re coming up to that time of year: Christmas. It is the season of smiles, the season for sharing, and the season for giving. The experience may be totally joyful for many, but for others, it can be a time of worry.

Giving Usually Hurts…

We cannot deny that for many, life can be harsh. Perhaps they are in a place in their lives when they feel that things are out of their control; they are experiencing many misfortunes that takes away what little they have in the way of luxury and pleasure. Bills go before dinners out; work goes before play. And in this kind of situation, it is easy to slip into the trap of thinking that whatever one gives others, however little, takes away from one’s happiness.

…But It Is Usually Worth It

What many fail to consider is the payoff from their sacrifice. Every act of sacrifice is an act of love. You pay your bills to keep your family secure; you work so that your children can play. The happiness you bring them, in effect, is your gift, and being able to give is something from which one can derive immense satisfaction. In the spirit of love that comes with the Christmas season, as well as the spirit of the Catholic Faith, it is important to not lose sight of this.

At Old St. Mary’s, we celebrate the spirit of giving not just during Christmas, but every day. Jesus Christ’s life was a testament to the power of giving. He performed healing miracles; he taught lessons to many, while inviting all to listen; and he died on the cross to cleanse us of our sins. As members of the Catholic Church, we must remember the importance of his example, and follow it always. Everyone is invited to be part of our institution, a home for traditional Catholics to follow the spirit of their beliefs.