Paczki Day

It’s Fat Tuesday as I write this, and everyone is talking paczki.  This day marks the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, a season that will take us to Easter and brighter plus warmer days too! 

Most religious traditions include in their practices a time for fasting and reflection/prayer as a special season during the year.  Think Ramadan for the Muslim community.  In our Christian scriptures, we are offered three ways of doing this: prayer, fasting and alms-giving.  As I consider this each year in the context of the soup kitchen, I am aware that many of the people who come to CSK already fast as a way of life, just because they have to scrape to get the meals they need.  As for alms-giving, they don’t have a lot to give materially and are often on the receiving end. 

For me, this points to two realities.  One is that it is a privilege to fast since it means we have food to give up.  And, giving alms means we have enough to share with others.  So, those who can practice these customs are privileged. 

The second reality is that people who have little, who are do not have the same means, have something to offer of even greater value.  Their witness of a strong faith that underlies their struggles in life and their willingness to share what little they have inspires me.  It reminds me that the season of penance is about inner conversion and being willing to share in the lives of others in a deeper way out of respect and love.  It helps to melt away any division that spells out a “we” and “they” or “us” and “them” attitude.  And this, for “the haves” and the “have nots.”  So, who really are the privileged? May this season before Easter lead us to greater unity, respect and mutual love.

Peace & All Good,

Br. Bob Malloy