Bishop da Cunha Building Faith Blog Fall River Diocese

Thoughts on Thanksgiving

As we come together with family and friends this Thanksgiving, I wish to share three things for your consideration and reflection. First, make time on Thursday to call to mind your many blessings. Thank God for your life, remembering all He has done for you over the past year. 


Second, foster an attitude of gratitude, primarily as you deal with life’s many struggles and challenges. Jesus tells us in John’s Gospel, “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world” (John 16:33). Jesus offers a peace this world cannot give. We’ve all experienced disruptions and unforeseen difficulties in the past few years, and we will again; however, remember that we are never alone, and whatever comes should warrant a response of gratitude and hope. Our troubles strengthen us, make us more sensitive to others, and mold us to be who God created us to be.
 

Lastly, this Thanksgiving, please consider how you may reach out and assist those in need who continue to struggle spiritually, physically, or materially. Consider what you might do to be Christ to them, to help ease their burdens, strengthen their hope, and return their peace.

Giving Tuesday

Each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, #GivingTuesday celebrates the gift of generosity — an opportunity to share and support important causes. 
The Mission of the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts is to invite great generosity, safeguard all gifts entrusted to our care and enable our parishes, schools, and ministries to advance the mission of our Church throughout the Diocese of Fall River.



This Tuesday, please consider making a donation to support one of the many funds providing resources to people and organizations across the Diocese. To learn more, visit www.catholicfoundationsema.org and click on “Support A Need” in the menu.
 

Advent Activities for Families

The Diocese of Fall River Secretariat for the New Evangelization has created an excellent website for helping individuals, families, and parishes celebrate Advent. A copy of the PDF resource (below), which also includes weekly activities and missions for each week of Advent, is available HERE.


 
I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving. May you be thankful, grateful, and generous as we begin the holiday season. May God Bless you today and always.
Yours in Christ,
Bishop da Cunha

The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River