By Denise Seibert Townsend
Catholic Charities
During this time of year, our focus naturally turns toward gratitude and generosity. As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week, we are reminded that the spirit of “thanks” and “giving” extends beyond a single holiday; it is a continuous way of life that reflects the heart of our Catholic faith.
Every day, Catholic Charities strives to provide opportunities where people feel seen, supported and valued — whether through helping families find stability, individuals discovering a path forward or neighbors receiving the care they need to thrive.
In reflecting on this season, I am reminded of one of my favorite aspects of Catholic Charities’ Neighbor to Neighbor program: the “blessings and concerns” portion at the beginning of each class. In this group setting, participants share both their blessings — the aspects of their lives they are grateful for — and their concerns — the things that worry and trouble them.
This exercise immediately brings to mind both the concerns and the blessings we encounter daily in our service. For example, Ron*, a retired individual, came to our office one early morning before we opened. He had managed his finances throughout his career but shared that unexpected expenses had left him unable to pay his utility bill. Ron had never sought assistance from Catholic Charities before, but he knew he could not make ends meet without help. Our team was able to work with Ron to secure assistance and connect him to additional resources through other community partners, allowing him to pay his bill and establish a plan for the future.
While Ron’s story illustrates the urgent concerns our neighbors face, it also highlights the tremendous blessings we receive. I immediately think of Joe*, who recently met with our team to learn about the Neighbor to Neighbor program. Learning about the challenges many participants face inspired Joe to offer his support. He not only committed his time to Catholic Charities but also provided a generous financial gift to ensure more families have the resources they need this winter. Joe, and other supporters like him, are truly blessings to Catholic Charities.
I also immediately think of the many other blessings that encompass the work of Catholic Charities: our skilled, caring and compassionate staff members; our many volunteers who generously give of their time and talent; our parishes, our clergy, our community partners and the many other caring people who provide prayers, financial gifts and so much more to offer hope to those we serve.
As I reflect on these many blessings, I notice how they help ease my concerns. While I absolutely have concerns, when I pause and reflect on gratitude, I become more focused on my faith and hope.
How often do you take time each day to reflect on your blessings? I encourage you to intentionally pause the next time you are faced with a concern and think about a blessing in your life.
During this season of gratitude, may you consider how you can be a blessing by serving others, inspiring generosity and sharing Christ’s light so that every gesture brings hope to those around you.
*Name changed for privacy.
Denise Seibert Townsend is director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Evansville.