In the spirit of St. Nicholas

Let us extend to the poor and to those afflicted in different ways a more openhanded generosity, so that God may be thanked through many voices, and the relief of the needy be supported by our fasting.

No act of devotion on the part of the faithful gives God more pleasure than that which is lavished on His poor. Where He finds charity with its loving concern, there He recognizes the reflection of His own Fatherly care.

In these acts of giving, do not fear a lack of means. A generous spirit is itself great wealth! There can be no shortage of material for generosity where it is Christ who feeds and Christ who is fed. In all this activity there is present the hand of Him who multiplies the bread by breaking it and increases it by giving it away!

The giver of alms should be free from anxiety and full of joy! His gain will be greatest when he keeps back least for himself.

The holy apostle Paul tells us: "He who provides seed for the sower will also provide bread for the eater; He will provide you with more seed, and will increase the harvest of your goodness" (2 Cor 9-10-11).