Within these diocesan initiatives and the liturgical season, there are two aspects of giving from the Old Testament and the life of Jesus that I would like to focus on: creation and sacrifice. They are interconnected and pivotal for true giving of ourselves.

The first gift that God gave humanity was the breath of life, spoken of in Genesis. Our lives are among the greatest creations of God, as we are made in his image and likeness. Just so, we are called to breathe life into the world around us, especially in the lives of our neighbors. In caring for them with our talents and best efforts, we truly “gift” as God intends us to. I urge you to give by doing good at every opportunity. As St. John Bosco said, “Do not send to tomorrow the good you can do today.”

And in creating, we are called to sacrifice first of the “good fruits” of our lives. Just as it is said in the Book of Proverbs, “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with first fruits of all your produce; Then will your barns be filled with plenty, with new wine your vats will overflow” (3:9-10). Jesus displayed this most clearly on the wood of the cross.

Charity is considered a “theological virtue,” a foundational pillar of God’s law and order among his creations. Christ teaches us that we must give radically of ourselves, even to those who call themselves our enemies. Despite our feelings, we are to bear each other to Jesus and do so for God’s honor alone, not ours.

This month, I ask that you reflect on the life of one saint that you admire and consider how he or she created and sacrificed for the glory of God. I also ask that you review paragraphs 1822-29 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church to better understand our shared and universal faith. Please be assured of my prayers for you during this penitential season.

“Let us show Christ honor, not with olive branches but with the splendor of merciful deeds to one another” (St. Andrew of Crete).

In Christ’s love,

Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS

Bishop of Charleston