From the Editor

As I was preparing to write this editor’s welcome I hit a mental roadblock. Those of you who have written know what it’s like to try to put thoughts down on paper and sometimes it just doesn’t come to you. Whether it’s distractions, not being “in the zone” or the mood to write something worthy, it is very frustrating when you just can’t seem to come up with the right words.

I researched previous welcomes that I have done and found this one from a few years ago. Surprisingly with a few additions it fit well with what’s happening in today’s world.

 It's November, the month of giving thanks. It seems that this year in particular we have much to be thankful for in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We were very fortunate that we were spared from personal injury and property damage during this hurricane season, which was an active one.  

We live in an area where nature's beauty abounds. Within our diocese is one of the richest estuaries in the country. It is an area that has a vast supply of oil and gas resources. This Thanksgiving Day when we are gathering with our families and friends and it is time to give thanks to God for our many blessings, let's not forget these things to be thankful for.

Be thankful that you live here in the USA. We have much to be thankful for in this country. Although Americans may be sharply divided in political views, we should all be thankful that we live in a democracy that allows us to assemble and express our opinions, viewpoints and ideals in a peaceful manner. We should also be thankful that we have the right express our views by voting in elections. Thank God you're an American.

Be thankful if you are gainfully employed. There are many people especially in our area who will be unemployed this Thanksgiving. Thank God that you are employed.

Be thankful if you have your health. Hundreds of thousands of people in America lost their lives due to the COVID-19 Pandemic this year. Many are still experiencing lingering effects from the virus. There is much that is not known about the virus. Thanksgiving Day will be different for many, many families this year. Some people will be spending this Thanksgiving Day in the hospital. Thank God you're healthy.

Be thankful if you have a home to live in. Many people were victims of hurricanes and wildfires this year; for some being homeless is a way of life. Thank God that you have a home that is safe.

Be thankful if you have a family to celebrate events with. There are some people who have no family. Many will be home alone without contact with anyone else. Thank God that you are surrounded by a loving family.

Be thankful if you haven't suffered the loss of a loved one this year. Death is a part of life. This Thanksgiving Day there will be loved ones missing from the dinner table. Thank God you haven't experienced the loss of a parent, child or sibling this year.

As Thanksgiving approaches at the end of this month, we all have the opportunity to thank God for the many blessings he has bestowed on us. Everyone has challenges in life. We all experience difficulties and no one is immune to death. Thankfully, we have a loving and merciful God who blesses us with the gift of lifeand the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. Therein lies what we should be most thankful for this year and every year.

At the Bayou Catholic we are very thankful for our loyal readers, advertisers and those who support the publication.

Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News!