Today is Good Friday, and that means we Catholics are fasting. In keeping with the spirit of the day, I'm not posting a recipe. Instead, I'm going to encourage you to do a little good today. Our world in need needs us more than ever. Any small act of kindness, compassion or love that you can share is the goal. I'm thinking of how people helped Jesus during his journey to the crucifixion (Simon, Veronica and the women), and how even in his darkest hour he helped another dying man by offering salvation (the thief crucified next to him). If you're not religious, then think of it this way: Mr. Rogers said in times of trouble to "always look for the helpers." No matter how hard we have it right now, we can always offer assistance to others. We can be the light. We can be the helpers. We can do some good this Good Friday.
A few ideas:
Give to your church: Our places of worship are still providing much needed support to our communities. If you regularly give to your church but haven't been able to since everything shut down, consider signing up for an online donation service. Our church (St. Paschal Baylon) uses Faith Direct. Visit the site and look for your church, You can sign up for weekly contributions or a one time gift. Consider giving an extra gift for Easter.
Feed the hungry: An alarming number of children get their only daily meals from school programs. With no school, there's no food. Americans are lining up in droves for food banks. There are so many you can help, but a few to consider include No Kid Hungry, St. Vincent de Paul, and Feeding America.
Support the frontline workers: While most of us are able to shelter in place safely in the comfort of our homes, many essential workers are showing up every day to ensure we have what we need. You can support the Corona Virus Relief Fund and provide immediate and long-term relief. Direct Relief is providing essential healthcare workers with PPE. World Central Kitchen is delivering meals to healthcare workers across the country, and supporting restaurants that would have otherwise been forced to lay off workers or even permanently close.
Do something: Sometimes the simplest gestures mean the most. Bake something for your parish priests and drop it off at the front door of the rectory (I'd do this tomorrow since we're all fasting today). Cut flowers from your garden and deliver them to neighbors with an Easter greeting (leave them on the front step/porch). Inventory your pantry and see if you have any extra supplies you can share with friends in need. Call those who are alone and help alleviate their loneliness. Pray for safety, health and prosperity for everyone.
May Good Friday bring out the good in you. God Bless.
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