World Gifts
World Gifts are CAFOD's charity gift range of unusual, ethical presents that will delight your friends and family.
Irini with her family in Ukraine
“Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”
John the Baptist places a demanding expectation before the people of his day. His words are direct, clear and explicit: share what you have, be honest, do not oppress people.
When a missile was shot down over the roof of her apartment in Kherson, Irini knew it was time to get her family of four to safety. They were relieved to find a new house, away from the front line but knew they would struggle to survive the harsh Ukrainian winter without money or fuel.
Thankfully, determined local experts at Caritas Ukraine, who like CAFOD are a member agency of Caritas International, were able to help the family. They provided fuel so that they would have heat during the worst months. The family gathers in just two rooms to help everyone keep warm in the freezing conditions.
Despite the challenges, Irini shows the kind of open-handed generosity that John the Baptist speaks of today, sharing her firewood with others who were not able to get any themselves. She says: “For me, warmth means family, peace, friendship, support.”
Today is Gaudete Sunday (Latin for ‘rejoice’) and, as we dwell on the words of John the Baptist and the example of Irini, we are reminded of the joy that is offered to us in living out the gospel. We find joy in the concrete actions of sharing and loving that bring new life to the world and to us.
Advent prayer
God of good news of great joy for all people,
give us warm and generous hearts,
inspire us to share what we have
and work for peace,
so we may share your joy.
Amen.
Act
Give a World Gift to someone you love and make sure a family has enough firewood to survive a harsh winter