Dear Fellow Parishioners, Each night, as part of my evening prayer reflection, I look back at the day’s events, happenings, activities, and encounters, and ask two questions. First, what was my moment closest to Christ this past day? Second, for what am I most thankful? Of course, to have answers to these questions I need be on the lookout for a moment closest to Christ. Jesus tells us he is present in the least of our brothers and sisters. So, I keep my eyes open. Interesting enough, sometimes I get a call from someone asking for prayers, or communion or to make an appointment for confession. After that encounter, I think; that is my moment closets to Christ today. Then as the day continues, another encounter or conversation occurs that helps bring the presence of Christ alive again. The same thing happens when I am looking for that which I am most thankful or grateful for. Many blessings come my way and I need to make sure that I let those fill my heart and not go down a rat hole of negativity, which can lead to depression, fault-finding and criticism of myself and others. I bring these to your attention as we approach our annual feast of Thanksgiving. As we assemble around our Thanksgiving table, we are asked to share that for which we are most thankful. Having an “attitude of gratitude” is something that is important to develop, not just during this Thanksgiving week, but everyday of our life’s journey. Keeping our eyes open for the presence of Christ daily and reflecting on the blessings that come our way each day helps create a mindset of being a blessing to others we encounter along our daily journey. Can you imagine what if would be like if someone you met along the way was able to say, wow, which encounter with you was their moment closest to Christ! On another note, I visit Milford Hospital every Wednesday. Due to HIPPA rules and regulations I am only able to visit those people who identify themselves as Catholic. So, when you are admitted to the hospital, please let them know that you are Catholic and are from Sacred Heart Hopedale. That goes on the Clergy visit list and I will then be allowed to visit you with communion and Anointing of the Sick. Happy Thanksgiving, Fr. Bill