Epiphany & Social Justice

In the liturgical feast of Epiphany, we celebrate the visit of the magi to the Holy Family in Bethlehem. When we look deeper, we see that this was a visit by those in the upper levels of society to a poor family, and they came to honor the least member of that poor family, the newborn child. Thus, a reminder that those with power are called to serve the least and lowest among us.
       Currently, 43.6 million Americans live below the poverty line. That is a significant percentage of the total US population, which means that nearly everyone will know of someone who is living in poverty.
       The bishops of the US have declared January as Poverty in America Awareness Month. Take a step in your own poverty awareness by visiting www.povertyusa.org. Then, consider taking one of the action steps proposed there. 

Copyright © 2010, Deacon Carl D. Smith. All rights reserved. Reprint permission granted to parishes for use in Sunday bulletins.