What is Giving Tuesday?
You may have heard of Giving Tuesday and asked what is Giving Tuesday and why, as Catholics, we should take note of this relatively new social movement.
Giving Tuesday, which takes place on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is an international day of giving that was founded in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y. It began as a day to take a stand against the consumerism and self-interest of Black Friday and Cyber Monday and bring the focus back to being charitable. Giving Tuesday is now most closely associated with monetary donations, but volunteering and simply performing good deeds for family, friends, and strangers is also a big part of Giving Tuesday.
With Giving Tuesday happening right before the beginning of the Advent Season, what better way to prepare for Advent than by helping someone else?
We are Jesus’ Hands
We see in the miracle of the loaves and fishes, Matthew 14: 19-20: Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied. Jesus called the disciples then, just as we are called today as Catholics, to act as the hands of Jesus, to bring His gifts and presence to others. Advent isn’t just a time for reflection; it’s a time for action. How are you going to use your God-given gifts to help those around you?
Giving Tuesday is a great reminder amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to share your time, talents, or treasures with others. Who can you help in your community? What mission in your diocese can you support? Answer the call this Giving Tuesday by doing something good in your community. Your gift can foster the spirit of kindness and goodwill that can resonate throughout the entire year.
If you would like to share your time and talents by volunteering at the National Shrine, please visit https://championshrine.org/volunteer/. If you would like to make a donation to support the National Shrine mission, please visit https://championshrine.org/give/.