That Everyone Might Have Food
This May, Pope Leo XIV invites the whole Church to pray that everyone might have food. In a world of plenty, millions still suffer hunger while food goes to waste. The Holy Father calls us to build a “culture of solidarity” through gratitude, simpler living, generous sharing, and responsible care for creation’s gifts.
This intention echoes the Gospel. Jesus multiplied the loaves, fed the crowds, and taught us to pray for our daily bread. In the Eucharist, we receive the Bread of Life — a sacrament that should move us to ensure no neighbor lacks ordinary bread. Here in Colorado Springs and the Black Forest area, food insecurity affects real families. According to the Pikes Peak United Way, 11.5% of Colorado Springs residents experienced food insecurity in 2022, touching an estimated 86,000 people. Many working families, seniors, veterans, and children quietly struggle to put nutritious meals on the table amid rising costs. Prayer matters, but the Pope’s call also demands action. Andy Barton, CEO of Catholic Charities of Central Colorado, offers a powerful reminder in his article “The Uncomfortable Challenge of Justice.” He writes that Catholic justice is “the condition of a right relationship between people and within society.” While charity meets immediate needs — such as donating soup or a few dollars — justice asks why people are suffering and works to correct the causes. Barton notes that charity can feel comfortable because it allows us to help and then “move on to the next item in our lives.” Justice, however, “costs those who are prosperous something on behalf of those who are vulnerable.” He concludes: “Christ not only healed the sick. He challenged the systems and society that left them sick in the first place. In Him, charity and justice are mutually inclusive. They are critical halves of the same act of love… We owe the poor care enough to let that love cost us something. How Can We Respond Locally? Support Local Charities: Donate to the Marian House Kitchen and Marketplace pantry, drop off needed items at 14 W. Bijou St., or volunteer in meal service. Call (719) 866-6286 or visit ccharitiescc.org/volunteer. Donate to Local Food Pantries: Julia Greely Red Wagon in our Church Narthex or Care and Share Simple Daily Actions: Practice meal planning, reduce food waste, and teach children gratitude through service. Parish Efforts: Pray for the intention at Mass, organize a food drive, or plan a group volunteer day. This May, as we pray that everyone might have food, may we open our hearts and hands right here in Black Forest and Colorado Springs. Let the Eucharist inspire us to combine generous charity with the demanding work of justice — so our love truly costs us something and reflects the heart of Christ.
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online