The Heart of Christmas: Compassion, Calling, and Care

On today’s episode of Just Love, as we enter the final weekend of Advent and prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, Monsignor reflects on how faith is lived through compassion, generosity, and service. He is joined by Tina Andrade, President & Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Hawaii, who shares how her agency supports individuals and families during this sacred season through holiday programs, community engagement, and advocacy—ensuring that those most in need experience hope, dignity, and accompaniment at Christmas.

The episode also explores the deeper meaning of joy and generosity during the Christmas season with Prof. Christina Hymer, Assistant Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Tennessee and lead author of the study “Who’s Behind the Red Suit?” Prof. Hymer discusses her research on the sense of “calling” among professional Santas, examining why hundreds of people choose this role and how their work becomes an unexpected form of service—spreading joy, connection, and human kindness during the holidays.