The Perfect Gift-Giver

Friar John Raphael Hadnagy

Friar John Raphael Hadnagy works at the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation in Carey, Ohio. Around the time of last Christmas when the joy of gift-giving was in the air, Friar John Raphael realized that God is the perfect gift-giver. Often people who care for us will surprise us with gifts when we don’t expect them. These could be small things that make a big difference or things that reveal their meaning to us only later on. The connection is that the giver thought of us and our wellbeing when he or she procured the gifts.

The Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation

in Carey, Ohio

God always has us in mind. His gifts we also often do not understand. But He is there with us every step of the way. Friar John Raphael demonstrated this at a homily he once delivered; he asked the congregation if they had ever gone through a rough patch in life only to realize many years later that God had guided them through it and made it a learning experience. More than half the congregation raised its hands and nodded with understanding. 

Inside the basilica

As we live our lives interacting with the world, we form perceptions of these interactions. Over time these perceptions can change because our understanding of the situation also changes. God to us is a mystery; yet – as Friar John Raphael pointed out – if we stop and reflect we catch on to the fact that His presence is with us all the time.