Glory to God in the Highest
“The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.’” – Luke 2:10, 11
Dear Friends,
Our Lord and Savior was born in the most humble of circumstances, lying in a manger with swaddling clothes. Yet, the announcement of his birth was glorious. Imagine being a simple shepherd watching over your flock at night when an angel appeared in the sky! The shepherds were understandably terrified. What was the message? That the Messiah had been born. Then, as if one angel wasn’t enough of a wonderous sight, a “multitude” of the heavenly host came, saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” The shepherds “went in haste” to Bethlehem to visit Mary, Joseph and the infant Jesus and told them of their extraordinary experience.
“Sal is a client who sometimes brings his neighbor, Joe, to FEAST. Joe, a father of two, struggles with drug addiction. Sal gets Joe’s family’s food when Joe isn’t doing well because he, ‘can’t let those children go hungry.’ By reducing the worry caused by food insecurity, FEAST offers hope for a better future for these families.” – Linda Dees. FSA Associate
While God has the infinite ability to produce miracles, the stories of Him working with the most ordinary people are the ones that inspire me the most. Mary herself is an example of this. God chose an unmarried, albeit engaged, woman to give birth to the savior of all mankind. I reflect on this theme when I think of our Sisters and their partners in mission.
Countless people are helped in five countries every year by people whom God has called to make a difference. Not only do they bring the Good News, just as the angels did to the shepherds, they bring a spirit of love and kindness for their fellow neighbors. The Mission Society supports this through food, hygiene, school building repairs, educational supplies, medical assistance and maternal care.
During this season of hope that comes from our Savior’s birth, we ask you to prayerfully consider a gift that will bring love and comfort to so many of our brothers and sisters in need. Some of us can’t possibly understand the challenges that some people face – homelessness, hunger, racism, personal safety, being a single parent, unemployment and lack of health care.
On behalf of all the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, their Associates and their partners in mission, thank you for your supporting God’s work in serving those who are poor in Bolivia, Brazil, Jamaica, Mozambique and the United States. May your family have a Christmas filled with peace, joy and the wonder of Christ’s birth.
Many blessings during this Holy Season,
Laura Whitford
President, St. Elizabeth Mission Society
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Click HERE for the 2024 Christmas Appeal.
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