So, when you gather around your table, bring our Lord to the center of your life and the lives of others.

This year, we journeyed together along the Via Fidelis to come to a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith. Now, we begin to turn to the sacraments, the source of all grace, to celebrate what we have learned.

We see the face of Jesus in every person, created in the image of God. It’s beautiful that we can celebrate the Eucharist with one another. We encounter his mercy in confession. We imitate his compassion by forgiving those who have wronged us. We are emboldened by the Holy Spirit in confirmation to live in wisdom, understanding, right judgement and fear of the Lord.

Led by the grace that we receive in the sacraments, we will transform the lives of others, and draw closer to God, the giver of every abundant harvest. This feast of thanksgiving, communion in the living Word, will inspire us to feed the multitudes in truth and love. Be compassionate to those in need. As Jesus said, “Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give” (Mt 10:8). 

I invite you in a special way this year to reach out to a person who might be struggling with loneliness during the holiday season. Perhaps someone is dealing with loss or separation. In the words of St. Paul, “bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal 6:2).

I wish you and your loved ones a very happy Thanksgiving! May God bless you and your families abundantly.

In Christ’s love, 

Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS 

Bishop of Charleston