Advertisers have been blasting out specials and promotions for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday. In between all the consumer noise, Catholics and fellow Christians have begun the season of Advent.
Even though our faith sensibilities tell us there is more to Advent and Christmas than “stuff,” part of our preparation for welcoming the Son of God at Christmas is participating in the giving nature of the season.
And there are so many people right here in our diocese who could use some of your gifts.
The Observer asked Catholic Charities what might be on their Christmas list and how could they help people enjoy shopping and giving at the same time.
So here are some suggestions for you to practice some faith, hope and charity this season.
All I want for Christmas is …
A new bicycle! -- A new bicycle has always been a favorite gift under the tree. For Catholic Charities’ Immigration and Refugee program, a bicycle is a gift that keeps on giving all year long. Many of the clients served by the Immigration and Refugee Program arrive in this country with only the clothes on their backs and are used to using bicycles for everyday transportation. So a used bicycle of any size and shape can be utilized by so many families. A bicycle represents familiarity, confidence and independence. And most of the new citizens use bicycles in all seasons. So if you have some unused bicycles, in good condition hanging around in your garage, you could make a family project of cleaning them up and donating your bicycles to Catholic Charities.
The gift of warmth! -- You can share the warm feelings of the holiday season beyond the fireplace and eggnog. Warm coats, hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, socks, sweatshirts and snow suits for infants top the gift list for most all clients of Catholic Charities.
All sizes for men, women, girls and boys are needed to help people keep warm and healthy, well beyond the holiday season.
The gift of food! -- Hunger knows no season and has no calendar so donations of non-perishable food items are always welcome. At holiday time, it is especially nice to donate dessert mixes or some special items to make the holidays as special as they are at your home. If your family enjoys the holiday cookies or bars, consider picking up an extra box or bag to drop off at the local food pantry at your parish or at St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center. And don’t forget the staples.
Pay it forward -- This holiday season, while you are giving and receiving gifts, think about donating your old items. For instance if your children or grandchildren get together to purchase a new recliner for you, donate your old one. If you buy a new purse at one of the many holiday sales, donate your old one. If you decide you are tired of your old artificial Christmas tree and decorations, donate them.
And when you are shopping, if there is a special on toilet paper, diapers, bath towels, household cleaners, etc., consider picking up just one more for a needy family.