By Fr. Justin Fulton
For the first time in my 38 years of existence, I put up my own Christmas tree this year. I found it to be very life-giving. It was a good respite after the Thanksgiving holiday and I also decorated the fireplace and hung a stocking in my basement apartment.
The tree I put up was one that we had growing up on 16th Street back home in Auburn. Mom and Dad now put up a ‘Christmas Village’ and do not have room for a tree. So, I got the old tree and ornaments and set them up a couple of weeks ago.
It was a nostalgic experience putting up the tree. Ornaments brought back memories of yester-year. Some of the heirlooms passed down by family were again hung up. My older brothers’ births were commemorated with ornaments. My younger sister had an ornament. Memories from relatives who had passed on to their eternity adorned the tree. 
Husker and Notre Dame ornaments and relics from the glory years of my beloved Kansas City Royals hung on that tree. I found myself smiling and being grateful to God for the memories of loved ones and good times.
Some struggles and difficulties were remembered as well. A feeling of emptiness crept in as I remembered dear ones who had passed on and I prayed for them. But as the last ornament was hung, a deep sense of joy enveloped the basement as I remembered what Christmas was all about as quoted by St. Athanasius: God became man, so that man could become like God.
When the world looked for a political revolution, or power with military might or money, God the Father did not send an army or write a check. He sent a Baby. Joy was given to the world on that first Christmas night in Bethlehem, and we have been given such a precious gift that must be shared: the gift of Jesus Christ.
CSS is again bringing the Joy of Christ to many needy households in southern Nebraska this year. Through toy drives, food distributions, adopt-a-family drives, Christmas meals, and cash assistance we are bringing the hope and joy Christ has given to the world to the less fortunate.
Many of our own neighbors do not get to experience Christmas the way many of us have: hanging decorations, laughing with family and friends, and having warm memories formed over good food, drink and lively conversation. Many do not get to church or Mass because they simply have not been invited. Many do not know Christ because they have not encountered Christ, and we feel it is our mission to be Christ in our little vineyard of southern Nebraska. The material and spiritual need is great and we do what we can and we invite you to join with us.
Reach out to someone you do not know and help them. Invite them to Mass. Share Jesus Christ with the world during this Advent and Christmas Season! Contact us if you would like to help out those less fortunate.
It is our prayer that many more will get to experience and form memories centered on the love of Christ, family, and new friends during this Christmas season. In essence, it is up to all of us to be living ornaments of Christ’s love to a world that needs it. Let us live greatly as we bring Hope to the Good Life! Thank you for your support and prayers of CSS. May God bless us all!
