by Moira Cullings
moira.cullings@theleaven.org
The air is cold and crisp, the lights are glowing and the shopping malls are jam-packed.
The Christmas season is officially here.
But does it really feel like Christmas? Or are you so overwhelmed with to-do lists and obligations that you haven’t had a second to stop and think about what we’re actually preparing to celebrate?
It’s easy to get wrapped up in how commercialized this season has become. We often forget what we are actually waiting for and the importance Advent plays in the weeks leading to Christmas.
One of the ways to combat the forces that are out there distracting us from the true purpose of Christmas is to give.
Whether it’s your time, your resources or simply your presence, being there for those in need is one of the best ways to prepare for Christ’s coming.
Maybe it’s the vibrant ambiance that fills our homes, or the hopeful anticipation we have in waiting for Christmas Day, but regardless of the reason, most of us are deeply inspired to use our resources to help others this time of year.
Fortunately for us in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, there are countless ways to donate and volunteer.
One of the wonderful ministries in our archdiocese that you might be interested in helping is Nativity House, an organization that provides shelter, support and hope to young unwed mothers in a faith-based environment.
Nativity House is more like a home than a shelter. It operates its maternity house in Wyandotte County, housing young mothers and providing them access to parenting classes, transportation to medical care and other support.
The ministry gives women who have nowhere to turn and no one to run to an embrace of love, care and understanding.
It gives young mothers a chance to create a brighter future for their babies.
It celebrates life.
Nativity House has a list of specific needs they are currently trying to fill.
They are simple:
Tall kitchen trash bags
Aluminum foil
Rolling pin
Dryer sheets
Dishwasher soap
Oatmeal
Corn meal
Flour
Sugar
Rice
Pots and pans
Serving bowls
The full list can be found on the website. If you feel moved to help in any way, contact Barbara Belcher at (913) 281-7722 or barbarab@nativityhousekc.org.
