No recorded lesson this week, but instead a heaping helping of ways to celebrate Valentine's day with your family, your community, and God.

They say the way to the heart is through the stomach, right? This February 14, skip the crowded restaurant and expensive three-course meal. Instead, opt for serving a meal made with love to those who need one. Look for opportunities to fight hunger at your local food bank, soup kitchen, homeless shelter or Meals on Wheels chapter.

For folks who aren’t able to spend the day with loved ones, receiving a handmade card or thoughtful care package can be uplifting. Consider reaching out to nearby hospices or hospitals to see if you can send some cards or tokens of love and support to their clients. Or try an organization that provides support to deployed military members, like the United Service Organizations (USO).

Animals need love too! Show how much you care for our furry, feather and scaled friends by contacting an animal shelter near you to see how you can donate your time this Valentine’s Day. Or, if you’re able, sign up as a foster parent and provide a loving home to a pet in need.

Avoid buying a pricing bouquet and plant flowers instead. Humans and critters aren’t the only things that deserve love. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show Mother Earth some affection by participating in a habitat restoration, tree planting or cleanup service project.

Love often means being there during tough times. Consider being there for your community and help save lives by volunteering to support those going through a crisis. Many organizations, like Crisis Text Line, even allow you to volunteer from your own home.

While it’s clear that volunteering is a great way to spread love on Valentine’s Day, sharing the experience with your loved ones makes it even sweeter. Find an opportunity for the whole gang to get involved.

God bless. Stay safe. Happy New Year!

Justin Rose

High School Youth Minister

Blessed Sacrament