“Giving Thanks Through Compassion”

Beloved Faithful,

Being thankful at times of great uncertainty, calamity, and chaos can be truly difficult. Nations are embroiled in war, children and the elderly go to bed hungry, veterans remain homeless, and the moral fabric of society seems to fray under the weight of suffering and injustice. In moments such as these, we may ask ourselves” what should we be thankful for?”

As Christians, our answer lies in the divine commandment of love and service. St. Paul reminds us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). Gratitude is not only expressed in words or prayers. It must also take form in action. While it is easy to refer to Scripture for comfort, true faith calls us to live those words through compassionate deeds.

Have you thought about serving the hungry at a soup kitchen? How about offering a meal, a blanket, or a kind word to someone who has none?

This Thanksgiving, let us reflect on the abundance of blessings we often overlook: the warmth of our homes, the love of our families, the gift of faith, and even the breath of life itself. These simple, everyday blessings are divine gifts worthy of our deepest gratitude.

I urge you, beloved faithful, to turn your thanksgiving into a living prayer. Instead of seeking material gratification in the spirit of Black Friday, let us transform that desire into generosity. Consider donating what you would spend on an impulse purchase to support the displaced families of Artsakh who are striving to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

May this Thanksgiving be a day of genuine prayer, reflection, and compassion. May it nourish not only our bodies, but our souls. And may we, through acts of kindness and love, fulfill the law of Christ by giving ourselves in service to our brothers and sisters in need.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Prayerfully

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
Primate