Friends, as we come to the end of the Letter to the Romans and near the end of the Liturgical Year, St. Paul (Romans 16:3–9, 16, 22–27), closes with thanksgiving. He names and honours those who laboured with him: Priscilla and Aquila, Epenetus, Mary, Andronicus, Junia, Ampliatus, Urbanus, Stachys, and many others. Each of these names has a story behind it. A story of love, selfless service and sacrifice. In their names, we find the strength of the early Church, where ordinary people did extraordinary things for God.

St. Paul reminds us that gratitude strengthens what grace begins. To thank others is to see them through the eyes of God, not as competitors or helpers to be used, but as gifts to be cherished. Gratitude will always keep the heart soft, communities united, and missions alive. When we take time to appreciate others, we breathe air of encouragement into their souls and remind them that their sacrifices – hidden or known matters.

Friends, by naming others, St. Paul steps back from the spotlight to allow us hear of others works and how he was not alone in his works. Gratitude humbles us. It reminds us that no one builds alone, no one serves alone, no one grows alone. Behind every mission is a team; behind every success is silent service. Gratitude is the language of those who know that everything and everyone is a gift.

St. Paul ends his letter in worship:

True gratitude always leads us back to God. When we thank people, we are really thanking God for working through them. Gratitude keeps the soul joyful and the spirit humble. It transforms ordinary days into moments of grace.

In past years, we have always ended the year with our Exercise of Gratitude, a special moment to express heartfelt thanks to the individuals and groups who have touched our lives and contributed to our journey throughout the year. As this year comes to a close, we pause, not just to look back, but to look around. To see the faces, names, and hands that have shaped our journey, lifted our spirits, and carried us through.

Just as St. Paul ended his letter to the Romans by naming and thanking those who laboured with him, we too take this moment to recognise the people who have been part of our story this year. Gratitude turns memories into praise.

Each of us has someone to thank:

Gratitude is more than courtesy — it is a spiritual discipline. It opens the heart to joy and prepares the soul to receive more grace. When we give thanks, we honour both God and those through whom His blessings flow.

So as we close this year, let us do our Exercise of Gratitude, let us count our blessings, name our helpers, and thank our God. Write their names, say a prayer for them, send a word of appreciation, or simply whisper a “thank you” to God.