Give the world something to celebrate
Bluebells on my walk
Susie is head of the legacies team at CAFOD. Susie reflects on the excitement of Pentecost and how despite the challenges of the last year, found something to celebrate each month.
I created a CAFOD Celebration Fund just over a year ago. Since then I’ve been adding little donations from time to time, counting my blessings and marking the passing of the seasons.
March: our wedding anniversary … but also Day 1 of the first lockdown
April: Grannie – age 98 – has mastered Zoom!
May: the bluebells are stunning
June: my birthday
July: a sad time, mourning my mother-in-law
August: my son has survived the messy business of A level grading
September: the children are back in school, for a little while anyway
October: discovering new walks
November: watching fireworks from my bedroom window
December: a peaceful Christmas at home
January: praying for a brighter year ahead
February and March: walking along the river, giving thanks for the gift of water
April: the hope and joy of Easter
Now it’s the season of Pentecost and I’m thinking about how excited those early Christians must have felt when they could speak and hear each other freely; the room buzzing with noisy conversation and friendships.
By happy coincidence, this Pentecost sees the relaxation of social distancing rules to allow non-household hugging.
In the coming weeks, I’ll start tentatively ‘reaching out’ to family and friends again and I’ll donate in thanksgiving for conversation, laughter, friendship and the precious gift of touch.
What are you thankful for?
Why not create a Celebration Fund to celebrate special occasions and everyday blessings? You can donate on your own or invite others to join in too. Share a little happiness with our global family.
Let’s give the world something to celebrate!
