What does it mean to give? We give love and support to our families. We give time and knowledge to our places of work. We give compassion and solidarity to those in need. In all these examples, we give a piece of ourselves—a piece of what makes us who we are.  

Today’s Gospel describes how Jesus gives a piece of himself to his disciples.  

Our reading begins as Jesus prepares for Passover. He has sent his disciples into town to find the place where they will eat. Once the home is located, the preparations complete, and everyone is seated at the table, Jesus addresses his disciples.  

“Take it; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it.” He continues, “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many. Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”  

When Jesus shared himself with his disciples, he shared his presence with us too. Jesus walks beside us in every challenge and every triumph.  

Right now, Ashley, our volunteer nurse, is giving her time, skills, and passion to support St. Theresa Hospital in Nzara, South Sudan. Since arriving just weeks ago, Ashley’s been busy caring for newborns during their precious first days of life.  

You can hear from Ashley yourself by watching her most recent video updates. We are grateful for these glimpses into Ashley’s journey—and are inspired to see her commitment to giving in action.