At this time of year, the world is obsessed with "Holiday" shopping events for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Church, however, has a different focus. The liturgical year comes to a close this Saturday, and a new Church Year begins with Advent this Sunday. The Church focuses upon being prepared for the comings of Jesus at Christmas, at the hour of our death, and in His Second Coming.

Tomorrow, in the USA, people celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving with feasting and the drinking of alcohol. Some of these gatherings will feature "drunken show" (see 1 Sm 1:14) similar to that which occurred at King Belshazzar's blasphemous party (see Dn 5:1ff). Belshazzar's life ended that night; he had no further time to repent of his blasphemous acts and undo the damage he caused during his drunken binge.

The Church is likewise throwing a Thanksgiving Day party tomorrow which also features holy vessels, wine, celebration, feasting, and the death of the host. It's called the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The Mass features the Eucharist, a word which means "Thanksgiving." Some Thanksgiving gatherings will begin with Mass and end with prayers of thanksgiving and praise.

Tomorrow and all days, be under the influence of the Holy Spirit and not under the influence of any substance. Give thanks the Church's way instead of the world's way.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 20, 2015

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