By Denise Seibert Townsend
Catholic Charities
One of my favorite Christmas carols is “O Holy Night,” which encourages us all to fall on our knees to worship Jesus, our newborn King.
“Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night divine!”
During this busy time of year, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, focusing on projects, shopping and preparations. I admit I am often thinking about what needs to be completed before the holidays. However, slowing down to reflect on this carol reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas, particularly through these profound lyrics:
“Long lay the world in sin and ever pining,
’Til He appears and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope; the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.”
These words are a powerful reminder that Jesus came in the humblest way to bring light and hope to a world struggling in darkness. At Catholic Charities, our staff and volunteers embody this hope by attending to the needs of the poor, the hungry, the lonely and the broken. By listening, sharing a reassuring smile, and being present, they provide the same inspiring hope described in “O Holy Night.”
The song reminds us that from darkness, great joy can be found in the birth of Jesus, and it reflects how, in our darkest moments, we can use our faith, hope and determination to positively transform our lives.
This Christmas message brings Lisa* to mind. A couple of years ago, Lisa contacted Catholic Charities, struggling to pay her utility bill. As we helped her move forward from this urgent need, we introduced her to our Neighbor to Neighbor program — a faith-based, intensive life skills education program.
Though Lisa and her children were living in a homeless shelter while participating in the program, she remained focused on her goals for individual growth, financial literacy and obtaining stable housing. Our team was thrilled when she called to share that she and her children were moving into their own apartment, just in time for Christmas.
Lisa continues to flourish today. She has secured a better-paying job, her children are thriving, and she is realizing her dream of starting her own business as a side opportunity. Lisa has made great strides and shares that she has hope for the future.
Lisa is one example of the powerful transformation that can occur when a person is supported, is heard, is determined and remains faithful. This Christmas, I pray that Lisa and the hundreds of others who have sought assistance from Catholic Charities experience the light and hope we feel when we hear “O Holy Night.”
Christmas is an opportunity to reflect on what is most important in our lives and the significance of having hope in the darkest times. I hope as you hear the words and music of “O Holy Night” that they serve as a touching reminder not only of the ultimate source of true love, joy, hope and peace, but also our universal longing for it.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).
* Name changed for privacy.
Denise Seibert Townsend is director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Evansville.