The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebration. However, for faithful Catholics, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and to align our spending habits with the teachings of Christ and the social doctrine of the Church. Here are some principles to guide wise and faithful spending during this holy season:
1. Prioritize the True Meaning of Christmas
The birth of Christ is the central focus of Christmas. As Catholics, our spending should reflect this profound truth. Instead of being swept up in the consumerist frenzy, focus on:
Spiritual preparation: Allocate time and resources for Advent reflections, prayer, and Mass attendance. “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him” (Mark 1:3).
Faith-centered gifts: Consider items that encourage spiritual growth, such as Bibles, rosaries, or books on Catholic teachings. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Family and community rituals: Organize activities that foster togetherness, such as reading the nativity story or participating in charitable acts as a family. “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20).
2. Support the Catholic Community
The Church’s social doctrine emphasizes solidarity and the common good. During the holidays, you can:
Buy from Catholic businesses: Support Catholic artisans, bookstores, and small businesses. Your spending can help sustain livelihoods within the community. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).
Donate to Catholic charities: Allocate part of your holiday budget to organizations that serve the poor, educate the young, and uphold the dignity of life. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Engage with parish initiatives: Participate in fundraisers, food drives, or volunteer programs organized by your parish. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24).
3. Share with Those in Need
“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). This teaching calls us to remember the poor and marginalized:
Adopt a giving mindset: Instead of extravagant gifts, focus on meaningful acts of kindness. “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17).
Include the poor in celebrations: Donate to shelters or invite someone in need to join your family meal. “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed” (Luke 14:12-14).
Gift with intention: Choose to give to organizations that provide sustainable support to vulnerable communities. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
4. Practice Moderation and Stewardship
Consumerism often overshadows the season’s spiritual essence. The Catholic social teaching of stewardship reminds us to use our resources wisely:
Set a budget: Plan your spending to avoid unnecessary debt and waste. “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?” (Luke 14:28).
Focus on quality over quantity: A few thoughtful gifts can have a more significant impact than an abundance of items. “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil” (Proverbs 15:16).
Choose ethical purchases: Choose products that uphold human dignity, are environmentally friendly, and promote fair trade. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1).
5. Celebrate in Unity and Simplicity
The holidays are a time for fostering unity and simplicity, both key themes in Catholic social teaching:
Simplify celebrations: Avoid lavish displays that detract from the season’s spiritual purpose. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20).
Emphasize relationships: Spend time with loved ones, prioritizing presence over presents. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8).
Cultivate gratitude: Reflect on the blessings of the year and express thanks to God and those around you. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Conclusion
As faithful Catholics, our holiday spending should embody the principles of charity, solidarity, and stewardship taught by the Church. By focusing on the true meaning of Christmas, supporting the Catholic community, and remembering those in need, we can celebrate in a way that honors Christ’s birth and brings hope to others. Let this holiday season be a testament to our faith, a time of generosity, and a reflection of God’s love in action.
Bachir Kallas is a financial analyst from Beirut and proud Tepeyac Leader.
