On Thanksgiving, a day rooted in the belief in our country that it is right to pause and give thanks to God for all good things, we recommit ourselves to living each day with gratitude in our hearts. Sacred Scripture reminds us over and over again to give thanks to God, including Psalm 118, which says, “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his mercy endures forever.”
We are all God’s children, to whom he gave the greatest gift of all, his one and only Son, Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God for the gift of his Son and for the salvation he brings. We give thanks for the gifts of our lives, our faith, our families, our friends and all those we hold dear. We remember that all that we have has been provided through God’s infinite love and mercy. And let us share our God-given blessings with others, especially the poor and those who are most in need, that they, too, may know the transformative power of God’s love.
When so many of our brothers and sisters around the world are suffering in these times of war, unrest, and division, may we gather around our Thanksgiving tables in faith, peace, and unity. Then we can share with our loved ones a renewed sense of gratefulness for the gifts we have received from Almighty God, and work to glorify him with a generous spirit toward all.
It is with an abundance of joy and appreciation that I wish you and your families a most blessed and happy Thanksgiving. And know that I am thankful for each and every one of you and will keep you in my prayers of gratitude to God.
May God bless you and those you love.
Your brother in Christ,
+Edward C. Malesic
Bishop of Cleveland