It Is a Time for Giving and Forgiving

Summary of a Fr. Gerry Creedon homily from December 17, 2006

"The crowds asked John the Baptist, 'What should we do?' He said to them in reply, 'Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none.'" Luke 3:10

It is a time for giving and forgiving!

To counter the cultural temptation to turn the season into a time for consumerism, and its attendant ills, materialism and selfishness, the church offers us the gentle call of the Advent season. Make ready the way of the Lord, by giving and forgiving. John the Baptist challenges us to give away a coat if we have two. The Giving Tree stands as a beloved parish symbol of that theme.

I want to thank all of you who have made the needs of our disadvantaged neighbors a part of your Christmas shopping. I also thank you for listening to this weekend's call to stewardship. Once a year we ask you to consider your habit of giving to St. Charles through the Offertory Program. Circumstances may have changed in your life over the past year that may call you to adjust your level of generosity. Among the many ways to reach out to others that come to your doorstep, I know that you will consider your parish community as a priority. We are a community that is generous in our outreach. Your generosity empowers us to do more.

Monday the 18th at 7:30pm, we will focus on the forgiving aspect of Advent. Even greater than material baggage, our sins can weigh us down. Let us welcome the Prince of Peace into our houses by ridding ourselves of every trespass and grudge, through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

With Advent hope.