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I thought this little guy was an appropriate image as I reflect on all I give thanks for
at this time. I can imagine that some would question what a koala has to do with
Thanksgiving Day in the USA. If you've been following my blog you probably know
that Australia has a very significant place in my story. Aussie isn’t just “the land down
under” for the Strickland kids, it is part of who we are and part of our story.
I suppose the picture of a koala serves to remind me of the wonder of God’s plan in
each of our lives. The story of how my father from Clarksville, Texas and my mother
from Sydney, Australia met during the second world war sounds a bit like a movie
script. It is a story that includes joy and triumphs as well as sadness and heartache but
isn’t that the case for all of our stories. As I give thanks for God’s blessings in my life
I am profoundly aware of all the graces and challenges that have brought me here. The
act of giving thanks is deeply embedded in what it means to be Christian and what it means
to be Catholic. As we celebrate this holiday I pray that all of us can be more aware of all
we give thanks for and I pray that our gratitude will strengthen us to face the joys and the
sorrows of tomorrow. May God bless you and all who are dear to you on this Thanksgiving Day
2012.
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 