Cardinal Tobin gives warm Thanksgiving message (Video)

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R,. Archbishop of Newark, released a heartfelt Thanksgiving message to his flock on Monday, Nov. 20.

The cardinal said he hopes our celebration of Thanksgiving is a moment for all “to savor all the good gifts of God.”

While Thanksgiving is considered a secular holiday, it certainly connects well with our faith, Cardinal Tobin said.  

“As Christians, we take nothing for granted, so our gratitude is directed towards God, who created us and sustains us through His grace.  Gratitude is an intimate and personal conversation with God,” Cardinal Tobin said.

He said the most profound way for us to express our gratitude to God is through the celebration of the Eucharist, which derives its name from the Greek word for “thanksgiving.”

“Whenever we participate in Mass, we give thanks to God for the precious gift of life and our salvation attained through Christ Jesus,” he said adding that Thanksgiving is one of his favorite days to celebrate the Eucharist because no one has to be there — it’s our choice to attend.

“Let’s remember to offer gratitude to God for all His blessings and express our thanks to those who have shared their gifts with us. Also, let us remember to share our blessings for those less fortunate and extend a helping hand as we approach Advent and Christmas,” Cardinal Tobin said. “I wish you a joyful and faith-filled holiday.  May God bless you and your loved ones.  Happy Thanksgiving!”