God’s gifts are given to be shared. Corinthians 9:6-15

Christmas celebrates God’s ultimate gift to mankind — the birth of His son, Jesus Christ. We honor this gift each year by sharing our own blessings with friends and family. As Pope Francis says, “God’s love is limitless.” His words inspire us to go “above and beyond” to serve our clients. This season, I hope you’ll be inspired to do the same to give in a way you have not before.

May I tell you about Evelyn?

This slight woman in her early 50s welcomes every new client coming to Catholic Charities’ Queen of Peace Center. When one teen arrives at midnight, ill from addiction and shaken with fear, Evelyn embraces her gently. “We all do the best we can,” she whispers.

Evelyn isn’t a typical volunteer. She herself turned to the Queen of Peace in a time of need. She had raised three boys on her own and worked hard to keep them safe and out of trouble. But years of her own alcohol abuse left Evelyn physically weak, emotionally drained, and “scared all the time.” Following six weeks in a daily program at the Center’s transitional living shelter, Evelyn overcame her addiction and is now five months sober. Today, she wants to give back, to comfort everyone who walks through our doors.  “I know now that my life is a gift, and my story is to be shared.”

This Christmas, we can share God’s love without limit, and together we can build a stronger community. Please consider extending a hand of selfless support once more today.

Wishing you a joyous Christmas season!

Theresa E. Ruzicka, CPA
President, Catholic Charities of St. Louis

P.S. Each of the 124,000 individuals impacted by Catholic Charities this year has a powerful story of resilience and courage. Thank you for sharing your best gift with us this season.