Dear Friends,
At our 30th anniversary celebration, Father Mike Schmitz gave an incredible eight-minute overview of the virtues. In talking about the theological virtues — faith, hope, and love — he noted that love is the Hebrew word “ahava,” which comes from a root meaning “to give.”
“Generosity is closely linked to ahava, closely linked to love,” Father Mike said. “If I don’t have generosity, I’ve got a lot of stuff: I’ve got a lot of talents, I’ve got a lot of gifts … But if I don’t have generosity, I don’t do anything with them.”
Saint Teresa of Calcutta spins that virtue this way: “Charity and love are the same — with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead.”
This newsletter is filled with stories of donors and partners of the Catholic Community Foundation of Minnesota (CCF) who show their love for God through charity and outreach to others.
Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community in Wayzata extends the loving legacy of a former priest to continue to provide support to neighbors in need. Steve Lucke, an attorney who has shared his time and talents through board leadership and pro bono representation, has found a viable way to share his treasure by creating a college scholarship. And, the beautiful work of Twin Cities Prison Ministry offers love, mercy, and hope to incarcerated individuals. Finally, attorney Sam Nelson helps us understand how even estate planning can provide us with an opportunity to care for those we love.
The CCF community is filled with examples of folks living generously to show their neighbor the love of Christ. It is our privilege to help facilitate that love and generosity. Thank you for trusting in us to steward your blessings — and often, your legacies of love.
With gratitude,
Anne Cullen Miller, MBA
President