First Poinsettias of the Season

You just know it’s Christmas when you see those bright red poinsettias!

Some say the red color symbolizes the blood of Christ, but the poinsettia’s red leaves are not the flower.  The yellow spikes in the very center are the flower, and some believe, represent the Crown of Thorns.

What fascinates me most is the poinsettia plant’s unique, transformative power.  It reminds me of what happens when you share your blessings with our Shrine.  Your prayers and generosity transform hopelessness into possibility!

When I saw the first poinsettias of the season, I immediately thought about how you bring the light of hope to those who have despaired in darkness.  Your incredible works of mercy are making such a real difference in the lives of so many deserving people around the world. 

I wish I could show you my deep appreciation, but I know you want to see your offerings and contributions go towards our important ministry of hope – here in the Shrine and in our missions around the world.

Not a single day goes by without your generosity touching the lives of the poor, the sick and shut-ins, the forgotten – even children who have no place to go.  For as little as $12 you can help deliver food or clean water.  A gift of $24 helps provide medicine.  Your gift of $32 or more helps educate the poor and care for orphans.  Every dollar you share brings hope where there has been very little!

What an incredible gift you make possible for all who turn to St. Jude Shrine in their moment of need.  Now it’s your turn!

Take a moment right now and let our patron saint of hope intercede on your behalf.  Write to me with whatever may be troubling you or your loved ones and friends.  Allow me to include your needs and petitions along with the many prayers and novenas presented here in our Shrine.

Because you have been such a loyal friend and patron of St. Jude Shrine, I am confident you are in St. Jude’s good favor.  Let him help you, too!

And if you are able, please consider making a special Christmas offering.  This is a difficult time of year and there are so many people who need the hope you can make possible.  Your help is urgently needed in so many places.

Please continue to be part of something miraculous!

Wishing you the hope of St. Jude,

Fr. Peter Sticco, S.A.C. 
Novena Director

P.S. Don’t forget that as a special patron of our Shrine, you are also entitled to have your needs and petitions presented at the tomb of St. Jude in the Vatican.  Write to me today, and if you are able, please share what you can and make hope possible for someone who urgently needs it.