As the Christmas season approaches, Christians are encouraged to reflect on the concept of wholehearted giving. The story from Luke’s Gospel about a poor widow who donates two small coins to the temple treasury is often cited as an example of giving with humility and generosity. Jesus notes that her contribution, though small in monetary value, is significant because she gave all she had.

Pope Leo XIV recently emphasized this message, stating, “The Gospel call to generosity is a hallmark of our Catholic tradition.” He referenced St. John Chrysostom’s teaching that charity is inseparable from worship: “When we give alms, we are offering worship to God.”

In Hawaii, local communities have been putting these principles into practice through efforts such as the Seafarers Ministry at Honolulu harbor. Volunteers provide supplies and companionship to fishermen from countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia who spend extended periods away from their families while working on fishing vessels. These outreach activities include monthly gatherings where volunteers deliver food and clothing and celebrate Eucharist with the fishermen.

Volunteers also serve meals at places like Carmen’s Kitchen at St. Augustine by-the-Sea in Waikīkī and Hale Kaukau in Maui for those without shelter or who are homebound. Other initiatives involve sorting donations at organizations such as the Institute for Human Services on Oahu or Hope Services on Hawaii Island, supporting parish food drives and Christmas Giving Trees, or visiting care homes to sing carols with residents.

These acts of service highlight that giving during Advent and Christmas goes beyond material donations; it involves sharing presence and dignity with others. For more information about social ministry opportunities during the holiday season and throughout the year, individuals can visit www.officeforsocialministry.org.

Pope Leo XIV writes, “When we give this way, we are participating in healing and sustaining the fabric of our shared humanity.” He encourages people to trust that God transforms what is given through vulnerability and need into something greater for all.