As we give presents at Christmas, we need to recognize that sharing our time and ourselves is such an important part of giving.

There would be no Christmas if there was no Easter.

Some groups are nationally known, some regionally and some local, but they're all giving their time. Giving back and sharing is the whole idea of the Gala.

Infinitely more important than sharing one's material wealth is sharing the wealth of ourselves - our time and energy, our passion and commitment, and, above all, our love.

Christmas is a tonic for our souls. It moves us to think of others rather than of ourselves. It directs our thoughts to giving.

God gave us our agency. He taught us a way. He showed us what to do. But he gave us our agency and left us free to act as we choose to do.