Thanksgiving is here. It’s a time to remember for all that we are grateful. It is a time to remember Thanksgivings from the past and a time to think about our future.
This past weekend we had our Saint Helen Service Auction. It was a wonderful success. While the final numbers are not in, we raised an amount in keeping with, and even surpassing, prior Service Auctions for the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless. The generosity from our parish was truly a beautiful experience to witness. In addition to raising the money for those in need, it was an amazing opportunity to celebrate the relationships we have developed in our community. Meaney Hall was filled to capacity with everyone having such a wonderful time…sharing dinner, catching up and enjoying the great auctioneering done by Jon Bramnick. The laughter nearly raised the roof. Even Jon commented on the unbelievable Saint Helen’s spirit.
When we think of why we had this event, it was so clearly evident hearing first-hand the story from the family who had been evicted from their housing and found themselves benefactors of the support from the coalition. Their story and their presence reminded us all of things for which we have to be thankful.
Thanksgiving is filled with beautiful memories. I think of my family and going to my grandmother’s and playing football in front of her house. There was great food, lots of family and friends, and much warmth and laughter. I treasure these memories. I hope you are able (were able) to celebrate this holiday with family or friends. No matter how you celebrated, I hope you feel (felt) the warmth of our faith, our gratitude to God who has blessed us in so many ways, and acknowledge all we have to be thankful for in our lives.
God Bless you all,
Msgr. Tom
