God does want us to use our time and talent in his service. Some talents we know we have, some may still be hidden, all of them come from God. So, do I have a career or occupational skill or even a hobby that might benefit the church, school or others?

All of us have special talents or gifts, which are a sign of the power and majesty of God, who can do all things. These talents and gifts are not given to us just for our own use, but are given to us for the enrichment of the lives of others and so that we can serve God better.

In sharing our God-given talents, we serve God, strengthen our parish and school and help one another as we build up God’s Church and each other in Christ. Gifts are never meant for oneself, they are meant for the good of all.

St. Peter in his first epistle tells us, “Each one of you has received a special grace, so like good stewards responsible for all these different graces of God, put yourselves at the service of others.”

All of Christ’s works need to be done in our parish and community. As you know, Christ is not physically present in our parish to:

• visit the sick and elderly,
• feed the hungry,
• teach those who want to learn,
• console the lonely and sorrowful,
• pray for the needs and to give a helping hand and a kind word.

Christ depends upon each one of us to do these Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy in His name. That makes us co-workers with Christ in the Holy Works of Redemption. What a privilege!

Your gift of talent is a special gift only you can give. Remember the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “It is in giving that we receive.”