Journey Through November

Nov 27

For many people, Thanksgiving is a time for tradition and travel. The 19th century poem that was eventually turned into a famous holiday song is a glimpse into the quintessential national holiday.

“Over the river, and through the wood, to Grandmother's house we go;
the horse knows the way to carry the sleigh, through the white and drifted snow.
Over the river, and through the woods, to Grandmother’s house away!
We would not stop for doll or top, for 'tis Thanksgiving Day.” (Lydia Maria Child, 1844).

The roots of Thanksgiving trace back to the Pilgrims' journey in the 17th century. Their travels to the New World originated in the outcasts' desire to seek religious freedom and the hope for a new beginning.

For many, these pillars of our foundations continue into our day. This week is a time to travel from near and far to gather with family and friends for at least one special day of remembering old times and making new memories. Other families spend a whole week or weekend together. This time in late November becomes an opportunity to share a meal and celebrate the traditions that connect our culture and our neighbors as one nation, under God.

Filled with gratitude, families and friends come together in appreciation of the gifts of faith and freedom. This is an opportunity to not only thank God for our blessings but also to look back and remember the blessings we have shared over the years. At our Thanksgiving table, we recall our family and friends who no longer break bread with us in this life.

In the Catholic tradition, the month of November has been a time to reflect on our connection as the Mystical Body of Christ, “fellow citizens with the saints and members of His household (Ephesians 2:19).” As part of the Kingdom of God, we journey through death into life.

We recall the lives of the saints who journeyed in mind, soul, and spirit. Faithful and fearless, courageous and confident, visionary and optimistic, the saints traveled in this world.

Traveling to different lands, and learning new cultures and languages, the saints glorified God through their ministry and presence to the people and strangers they met along the way. Whatever the language or the landscape, the proclamation of the Kingdom of God was at the center of their spirituality and the heart of their message.

The saints knew that by living the Gospel faithfully and proclaiming the power of the Lord, they could transform the kingdoms of this world into the Kingdom of God – a kingdom of justice, love, and peace.

As we conclude this sacred month, we prepare for the next part of our liturgical year, the season of Advent. During Advent, we will look to the journey of Mary and Joseph and their travels through salvation history.

On this special Thanksgiving Day, may you find joy, peace, and holiness to help you on the next phase of your journey. May we take time to break bread, share life, and seek God’s will.