Principal's Update

November 25, 2008

As we prepare to celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday there are many things to remember: thawing the turkey, preparing the stuffing, polishing the silverware. It is also important to remember the Eucharist. After all, Eucharist is a Greek word that means “to give thanks.” .

Each time that we gather at Mass we receive and amazing gift: the Body and Blood of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. This is no mere symbol. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly and fully present with us in a way that is like no other. When we receive His Body and Blood in the Eucharist we are joined with Him in the most intimate way possible. Of course this great gift is in addition to all of the other gifts that God has given us: our lives, our families, our homes, our faith, our freedom, and so much more.

This is why we, as a nation, set aside a day each year to give thanks to Almighty God for the many blessings that we receive. In the midst of the excitement of the day and its preparations, it is important to remember to stop and take time as a family to give thanks to God for our blessings. It is best to make this an important part of your family’s celebration. Set aside a time before, during, or after your meal for each person to think of for which to thank God.

As Catholics, though, we have the opportunity to give thanks not just once a year, but weekly, even daily as we gather for the Eucharist. The Mass is not only a time to receive, but to give as well. We gather to give thanks to God for the gifts that He gives us each day and the gift that He gives us in the form of His Son.