CT - Third-grader uses his talents wisely

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Third-grader uses his talents wisely

CATHEDRAL DEANERY — When eight-year-old Christian Jones raised his hand at Sunday Mass on Nov. 16, he was eager to volunteer. Little did he know that he would be learning a valuable lesson and helping others as a result.

CT/EILEEN CONNELLY, OSU

Christian Jones, a third-grader at Annunciation School in Clifton poses with his father, Bob, mother, Donna, and younger brother, Alex.

The Gospel reading for that particular Sunday was the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). To illustrate the Gospel’s message that we are to use God’s gifts wisely, Franciscan Father Al Hirt, pastor of St. Monica-St. George Parish, asked for volunteers from among the children in the congregation as he began his homily. Christian didn’t know what he was volunteering for when he raised his hand, but it didn’t surprise his mother, Donna, that he did so. "He likes to be in the action," she said of her son, a third-grader at Annunciation School in Clifton.

When the children came forward, Father Hirt gave $5 to a little girl, $2 to Christian and $1 to another boy, representing the amount of money (or number of talents) the master in the parable gave to each of his servants. "It was to dramatize the start of the Gospel passage and find out what the children heard in the story," Father Hirt said.

On his own, Christian decided to send his $2 to the St. George Food Pantry, which serves individuals and families in zip code areas 45219 and 45220, providing food, clothes and some household items. His parents have donated to the pantry during Advent and Lenten food drives at the parish and believe Christian "picked up on that," said Donna Jones.

She and husband, Bob, matched Christian’s donation, leading to his idea to ask more people to contribute. "I just want to help the food pantry," he explained. "It’s a nice thing to do at Christmas."

COURTESY PHOTO

In his best handwriting, Christian Jones penned this "Letter to Editor" to encourage others to _donate to St. George Food Pantry.

Christian has since received donations from his teacher, Alison Lochard, his mother’s co-worker and parish families. His aunt, Karen Layou of Michigan, is matching whatever funds Christian raises. He is also reaching out to the general public for assistance, penning a "Letter to the Editor" in his best handwriting, asking others to donate to the food pantry. The letter was sent to the Cincinnati Enquirer, but since they did not publish it, the family sent it to The Catholic Telegraph. To date, Christian has raised $50.

His parents are proud of their son’s initiative and generosity. "We’ve tried to steer him to be socially responsible," said Donna. "He really picked up on the whole point of the parable — making sure to share your gifts. He’s able to see how his generosity his flourishing."

Added his father, "He’s learning how important it is to care for people in need."

Father Hirt praised Christian’s "creative thinking" and said, "It’s nice to see how he took the Gospel message to heart."

Christian hopes his efforts will inspire others to also use their gifts wisely saying, "It’s important to help others, especially at this time of year."

Those interested in helping may send donations in Christian’s name to the St. George Food Pantry, 328 West McMillan Street, Cincinnati, OH 45219.

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