Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

What am I thankful for this year (and always)? You! You, who are a part of the family of God. Each of you is a gift to our local Church. By your prayer, sacrifice, love, and concern, you live out the mission of Christ to build the Kingdom of God.  Even in the midst of challenges and a global pandemic, you lift high the Cross, the sign of Christ’s victory over death. I am inspired by your devotion to the Eucharist, the saints, charity, justice, our Blessed Mother, and all in this world that is good, beautiful, and true.

As I reflect on Thanksgiving and all the blessings we’ve experienced this year, I am hopeful about our future. While our world has always known suffering, it has also always known joy. God transforms our world and makes all things new (Revelation 21:5).

Thank you for your resilient faith and for Courageously living the Gospel of Jesus Christ in your homes, schools, churches, communities, hospitals, homeless shelters, farms, factories, businesses and wherever God may lead you.

“I give thanks to my God always on your account for the grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in him you were enriched in every way” (1 Corinthians 1:4-5).

Happy Thanksgiving, and may God bless you!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Gregory Parkes
Bishop of St. Petersburg