by Lauren Solidum
Pope Leo XIV began his papacy by telling the world that there is no greater closeness to God than through your love and care for his people — his vulnerable and poor people suffering and in need.
As we celebrate Christ’s birth, we are reminded of his humble beginnings. We recognize that the Holy Family experienced many of the challenges surrounding poverty that families are facing today due to costs rising faster than wages. We are especially blessed as a second collection at all Christmas Masses throughout the archdiocese comes directly to support the work of serving the poor through Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. Every donation is truly appreciated and a testament to our shared commitment to living out our faith through action.
Wouldn’t it be a Christmas miracle, in answer to Pope Leo’s call to action, to have the full participation of the faithful in the annual Christmas collection? Imagine every person prioritizing this Christmas our coresponsibility in living out the Gospel mission — let’s do it!
One less visit to Starbucks — or in my case, QuikTrip — a week is all it would take. And, what if we put this practice of giving into place long-term? Think about the impact of our entire archdiocese of over 181,000 Catholics giving just $10-$20 annually as a sacrifice for the poor — just $10 multiplied becomes millions of resources for those in need! Come Holy Spirit, move the generous hearts of your faithful!
The Christmas collection has a long-standing tradition in our archdiocese — one that is not reflected among all the dioceses in Kansas or the United States — which makes its appeal a very special opportunity to put love into action. This is not an “extra” tax or assessment on your parish, but rather a primary vessel for you to help serve the poor through freewill donations to the church’s charitable arm in our archdiocese.
Catholic Charities is an incredible steward of your investment with 91 cents of every single dollar donated going right back into the life-changing programs and services we offer — to everyone! This past year, your parish’s incredible generosity helped feed, clothe, shelter and provide life-changing skills to over 74,000 who are marginalized, vulnerable and in need of assistance.
We could not do our critical work without your support. On behalf of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and those we serve, thank you!
Let us embrace our Holy Father’s call to love and serve the poor and inspire others to join us!
Merry Christmas and a very happy new year!
