Dear Family of the Archdiocese of New York,
As we approach our nation’s Thanksgiving celebration of God’s abundant blessings, we mark World Day of the Poor on the weekend of November 16-17, a timely reminder that too many here at home, as well as globally, struggle each day for their daily bread and much more.
On Sunday, November 17, in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue I will bless food for Thanksgiving meals to be distributed by Catholic Charities throughout the Archdiocese of New York to ensure that many of our neighbors will be able to share with their families in the festivities of this holiday.
As I do so, I will be remembering and giving thanks to God for the multiple ways that Catholic Charities in this archdiocese alleviates the suffering of the poor and advances their dignity. Again and again, as I visit Catholic Charites’ programs, I note with pride the personal way those receiving help are treated – not as “cases”, but as persons made in the image of God.
Throughout this month you will hear more about their good work to bring help and hope to our neighbors in need: rent is paid, safe residences are secured, youth are welcomed in after-school programs, English is taught, families are preserved, migrants are trained for work, affordable housing is built, individuals and families are counseled, and so much more. Catholic Charities' help is provided in a way that hope is created for a better future. For this I give thanks to God.
As you prepare to gather around your own Thanksgiving tables, I ask you to remember and pray for those getting by with less, whom we are called to love and serve.
With prayerful best wishes, I am,
Faithfully in Christ,
+ Cardinal Timothy Dolan
Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan
Archbishop of New York