Celebrating the Season of Giving

Christmas is a season that wraps the world in a blanket of warmth, generosity, and togetherness. It's a time of year that goes beyond the glittering lights and festive décor, striking at the core of what it means to be human. Christmas holds such profound importance in the realms of giving, family, caring for the less fortunate, faith and remembering those who are sick or dealing with health issues.

At the heart of Christmas lies the act of giving. This isn't just about the exchange of physical gifts but the sharing of time, love, and kindness. The joy derived from giving is often greater than that of receiving. It's in these acts—whether it's a thoughtful present, a handwritten card, or a simple act of kindness—that we find true fulfillment. Giving fosters a sense of community, showing that we care about the well-being and happiness of others. This selflessness is a beacon of hope in a world that often feels too focused on individualism.

Christmas is also a time for family. Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of family connections. The holiday season offers a precious opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, share traditions, and create new memories. Whether it's decorating the Christmas tree, baking cookies, or simply sitting together around the dinner table, these moments strengthen bonds and remind us of the support and love that family provides. In an ever-changing world, these connections ground us and offer a sense of belonging and security.

The spirit of Christmas extends beyond our immediate circle to those less fortunate. This season reminds us to open our hearts and lend a hand to those in need. Acts of charity, such as donating to food banks, volunteering at shelters, or simply reaching out to someone who might be lonely, embody the true essence of the holiday. It's a time to reflect on our blessings and recognize the impact we can have on the lives of others. By helping those less fortunate, we not only improve their circumstances, but also enrich our own lives with a sense of purpose and empathy.

Christmas is also a time to remember those who are sick or dealing with health issues. The season brings an opportunity to extend our compassion and support to those who may be struggling. Acts of kindness, such as visiting a friend in the hospital, helping with errands, or simply offering a listening ear, can make a significant difference. It’s about showing that they are not alone and that there is a community that cares. By reaching out to those in need of comfort and healing, we embody the true spirit of Christmas—love, empathy and human connection.

Sickness and health issues are inherent within the human race as we all have experienced such issues individually, through family members, friends or acquaintances. It is with deep concern that I inform you of such instance currently affecting a childhood friend of mine. Greg Vladika, a devote Byzantine Catholic, loving husband, father, grandfather who has served the GCU as a Board Member since 1994 has been diagnosed with a life-threatening liver disease. I often state that “Hope is never a strategy unless you have a plan in support of such Hope.” Greg has such a plan that does offer “Hope” as I invite you to read his plea located below and consider being a part of his plan. Please pray for Greg and his family with a “Hope” that our prayers will be answered!

For many, the religious aspect of Christmas is paramount. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a moment of immense significance in Christian faith. It is a time to reflect on the teachings of Christ—love, compassion, and humility. The nativity story, with its themes of hope and salvation, resonates deeply with believers. Attending church services, singing carols, and reading the story of Jesus' birth are ways that families and communities come together to honor this sacred event. The season is a reminder of the spiritual light that Christ brings into the world, inspiring acts of kindness and faith.

Christmas, at its core, is about giving, family, extending kindness to the less fortunate, celebrating faith, and remembering the sick and those dealing with health issues. It's a time to pause and reflect on the values that truly matter, to celebrate the joy of selflessness, and to nurture the relationships that sustain us. As we dive into this festive season, let us embrace the spirit of Christmas in all its facets and spread love, joy, and compassion to all.

The various acts noted above are a part of the principals the GCU was founded upon that exemplify the GCU Mission Statement of “Protecting Families, Promoting Faith and Fellowship, Strengthening Communities”! Our Constellations and Byzantine Catholic Parishes practice such acts of kindness not only at Christmas but throughout the year. We invite you to review the various charitable works and acts of kindness presented in the Matching Funds and Fraternal sections of the Magazine.

The GCU is only as strong fraternally as we are financially allowing for the financial support of the various programs funded. Despite the challenges associated with the current easing high-interest rate markets, GCU is performing well, continuing to increase assets and total adjusted capital while generating a modest net profit. The GCU’s 2024 third quarter financial results and detailed commentary are presented on page 4 in the December Magazine by our Chief Financial Officer Tim Demetres.

My congratulations and thank you to our Board of Directors, Executive Officers, Department Directors and our entire Support Staff that have allowed GCU to experience another challenging but successful year! May the Birth of Our Lord and Savior and the joy of this holiday season provide you and your family Hope, Faith, Peace, Love and Good Tidings during this Christmas Season! My best wishes for a safe and Happy Holiday Season and all the best for a healthy and prosperous New Year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!
CHRISTOS RAZDAJETSJA!
CHRIST IS BORN!

George N. Juba | GCU President/CEO