By Sheila Ricketts

Thanksgiving – the fourth Thursday of November by federal decree – fell on November 28 this year, meaning that it was about as late as it can be.

That fact, in turn, meant that Christmas is just around the corner, with Advent beginning on December 1 along with the countdown to Christmas. Of course, since decorations have been in stores since before Halloween, it is not as though seeing twinkling lights or jolly Santas will be surprising. The season grows ever-longer.

Tucked in the frenzy of gift-buying and over-eating is the tradition of giving – not to each other but to those who are less fortunate. Traditionally, the Christmas season is one of the most important for charities and nonprofits, and we have seen the uptick in emails or letters asking for donations in recent weeks. Though possible tax benefits give year-end giving additional urgency for some, our faith in Jesus Christ and the call to serve others provides a more compelling motivation to turn our attention to our neighbors in need. There are numerous ways that we can help – and one is to give to the annual Catholic Services Appeal.

The appeal helps to supports more than 100 ministries and services in the Archdiocese of Louisville. One is the Office of Youth and Young Adults, which empowers those who form the young Church to be strong in their faith and to share the joy of Christ with others. Another ministry supported by the Catholic Services Appeal is the Sister Visitor Center, which provides food, rental and utility services, case management services, and other emergency items to residents in need.

At Christmas, we remember God’s unconditional love manifest in the gift of Jesus Christ. A donation to the Catholic Services Appeal this holiday season is a wonderful way to show our gratitude for this gift and be good to those who cannot repay us.

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