Lent seems like a long time ago, and most of us will have forgotten what sacrifices we made or alms we gave. A letter from Trocaire came in during the week to express thanks for our parish gift of alms. The Director explained that the Lenten campaign had made an enormous difference against the storm of poverty and climate change in Guatemala, giving families there a future. He used the expression “Today your generosity stands beside them.” It was a powerful reminder of why we fast, give alms and help those in need as an expression of our faith and in gratitude for our own good fortune.
Another expression of this desire to be of support to those who suffer came in a request from one of my sisters in law to contribute to a fundraiser. She is walking 100km during this month as part of a community initiative to raise money to send medicines to Gaza. She isn’t a young woman anymore, but she is determined and generous. So, she puts on her boots, and either alone or with a neighbour or friend, they set out to walk, regardless of the weather, to make this goal, doing a bit every day.
The Mission Sunday appeal is yet another channel of being able to make a difference elsewhere by giving something here today. Read Pope Leo’s note in this newsletter, he speaks as a missionary and his words ring true with all the experience we have with Irish men and women who built up the church in so many parts of the world.
A final word from Trocaire, “Thank you Fr Mullan and all your parishioners for your steadfast heart for humanity.”