Father Richard Maynard
The homily this week was given by Father Richard Maynard, speaking on behalf of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. Here is a summary of his words:
Today's gospel speaks about the little ones. Who are they? The little ones are the powerless, the sick, the poor, the old people and the children. We are called to help and protect the powerless.
A little girl, about 10 years old appeared at the door of the mission in Swaziland. She was covered with sores, dirty and starving. She was taken in by the nuns who run the mission, bathed, fed and clothed in a pretty white dress. The girl did not speak a word for three days. Curiously she seemed to be reluctant to sit or lie down, even when tired. She always wanted to stand up. Gradually she seemed to realize that she was safe here. When she was finally able to speak, the nuns asked her if she was injured, making it hurt to sit or lie down. She responded that she had never had one before and she did not want to spoil her pretty dress.
Are you willing to share what you have? Will you reach out to our brothers and sisters? This is not a matter of providing for wants, this is a matter of providing for the true needs of people: food, clean water, clothing, shelter, education. The Christian Foundation for Children and Aging assists Catholic missionaries around the world by providing them funds to assist the people in their care. You can make a big difference in someone's life by sponsoring a friend in one of these missions. It costs $20 per month, less than the cost of a cup of coffee each day.
This is not a matter of charity; it is a matter of justice. Each of our brothers and sisters in Christ deserves our help. We are asking for only that you provide a person in this world the gift of hope.
You can sign up as a sponsor after Mass or through the brochures you will find in the pews.
