(Originally posted December 2010; edited June 2014)
Most of us are launching into our Christmas gift shopping. As we have heard many times in recent years, there are ways to be socially responsible in our gift-giving. For example, we are urged not to buy things that will be quickly used up and then discarded, such as "gag gifts" or cheap trinkets. Instead, think about giving "experiences" (such as theatre or concert tickets) rather than merchandise. Such an approach will enhance the life of the recipient, support local artists, and be kinder to the environment.
We can also donate to a charity in the name of the other person. Programs such as Catholic Relief Services (http://gifts.crs.org) and Heifer International (www.heifer.org) have "gift catalogs" where you can be such things as shares in promoting peace in southern Sudan or a flock of ducks for a needy family in China.
In your gift-giving this Christmas, be creative -- and be just!
Copyright © 2010, Deacon Carl D. Smith. All rights reserved. Reprint permission granted to parishes for use in Sunday bulletins.
