Dear Saints,

Just as a human being is defined by certain material realities, so too is he defined by certain spiritual ones. Among other things, to be human means to live according to the dictates of fraternal charity. Children, for example, are innate givers. Studies show that long before cultural norms and expectations set in, kids will open doors for adults, look for something a peer has lost, and even stop playing to help someone else in need.

In that sense, children are more dialed in than most adults to the essence of humanity: they embrace without hesitation the fact that those who have are responsible for those who want.

Imagine how liberating it would be if we could keep that spirit of generosity alive within us as we age. If we could keep at bay the greed and fear that so often causes us to be miserly - not just with our wealth, but with our love.

Once again, the Church in her wisdom offers us that very freedom through Lent, and in particular the practice of almsgiving. The root word of “alms” means “mercy,” and the act of giving alms - ie, showing mercy through material gift - renews and restores within our hearts the fraternal charity to which we’re called. Every time we’re generous with our possessions for the sake of love, we flourish a little more into the image and likeness in which we’ve been made.

We’re quickly running out of Lent, but there are still three weeks left to prioritize generosity. We would be well-served to spend these days imitating the natural servants we once were and are called to be again.

Christ’s Peace,

Father Daniel

δοῦλος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ

PS Our beyond-the-tithe challenge for this Lent is Several Sources, a well-known local charity that saves babies’ lives and shelters their young mothers. Our goal is to raise at least $20,000 for this great work.