Dear friends in Christ

The Readings of the Mass this weekend teach us an important lesson in charity, Christian almsgiving and generosity. The Church calls this work of giving alms one of the works of mercy. Our Lord praises the act of generosity in the poor widow and her small coins. Our Lord applauded not just her act of generosity for the sake of divine worship, but also the fact that the gift was made with a pure heart—her intention was correct and just. God values the disposition of the giver more than the gift received. As Saint John Chrysostom comments: He looks not only on the amount given, but into the very heart of the donor. Almsgiving is considered a work of mercy because it is very pleasing to God and He will reward our generosity far more than we ever contribute: be it to the works of the Church, some deserving charity or the cult of worship. The holy Curé d’Ars—Saint John Vianney—would often say: A house of charity will never be poor. As the poor widow in the Gospel returned home, she must have been filled with joy knowing that at the end of her life, she would finally see the glorified face of Christ that was cast upon her in that ordinary morning in the Temple. God watches all of our actions with all the affection and love of a good Father.

May one of our great acts of mercy and charity this month be, our prayer for the Holy Souls in Purgatory. One day, we too will rejoice in heaven, as we gaze upon the face of Christ and of all those whom we have assisted by our prayer and sacrifices to enter eternal life.

God bless you!

Msgr Kevin Hale