The Tuesday after Thanksgiving has been designated as ‘Giving Tuesday’ for a decade now. Perhaps as a counterpart to the extravagance of ‘Black’ Friday, it’s a good moment to reflect upon what we want to support with our sacrificial giving.

All of us – including priests – are supposed to fast and give alms. Usually, Lent is the time when I consider what projects I want to support financially, but why not Advent as well? Advent is a great time for sweeping up, to make room for Christ, who bursts into our lives at Christmas with all the life and vigor of a newborn child.

The Guild is an extraordinary venture. It’s fresh out-the-box new – and comes direct from the heart of our shepherd, Bishop Caggiano, as the fruit of his prayer for you. Bishops have a unique conversation with God by virtue of the fulness of Holy Orders they receive – and we should take careful note of whatever our Bishop considers a priority in the Diocese. The Guild is an extension of his personal ministry, entrusted to Our Lady’s special care, headquartered in Georgetown, CT.

If the Sacred Arts are important to you, please consider making a generous donation to the Guild this Giving Tuesday. We rely entirely upon your generosity for the works we do: from Kids’ Art Schools, to Contemporary Praise and Worship nights; from High Mass to quiet contemplation in Adoration – there’s something for everyone. Furthermore, we have to pay the entirety of the costs of our beautiful and historic campus for both Guild and Parish.

Priests are often not comfortable asking for money. They don’t say it in simple words, but I will: without your contribution, we can do nothing. But in the end, I’m not asking for something from you so much as offering something to you. What I have to offer is something utterly priceless – to make Christ’s face visible in the Diocese of Bridgeport through Beauty. Be a part of it! Work with us! He’s counting on you…

Please make your offering by placing it in the offertory basket after Mass, mailing a check made out to ‘Sacred Heart Guild’ to 30 Church Street, Redding, CT 06896 and placing “Giving Tuesday” in the memo, or through our donor box link on our website, jesusguild.org.  Any amount given is very helpful.  Your participation in Giving Tuesday will help us to continue the good work of the Guild.  We are very grateful for all of the donations already received for Giving Tuesday.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated.  The Guild of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Inc. is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Our tax-exempt number is 88-1438030.  Your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

With every blessing under heaven,

Your servant,

Fr. Michael Clark

Rector