As we approach the end of our Advent season, our Gospel today focuses on how the birth of Christ comes about; how Mary “was found with child through the Holy Spirit” and how the child was to be named Jesus. In few days, we will celebrate the birth of Christ. At Christmas, Christ comes into the world and into our lives as a sign of the love God has for us. The Christmas season should be a time of prayer and reflection, wonder and silence as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World.
The following “Prayer for Christmas Season” provided by Daniel Ninanjan through the media outlet, “divine disclosures” reflects the essence of the season:
Eternal God, as we enter this sacred Christmas season,
we come before You with hearts full of anticipation and gratitude.
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose coming we celebrate during this special time.
As the world around us bustles with activity, help us to slow down
and reflect on the true meaning of this season.
May the twinkling lights remind us of the Light of the World,
the festive music echo the angels’ proclamation, and the spirits of giving mirror Your ultimate gifts to us.
During this Christmas season, open our eyes to see opportunities to share Your love with others.
Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, the joy of His coming fill our spirits,
and the hope He brings renew our strength.
May this season be more than a fleeting celebration,
but a time of deep spiritual renewal and connection with You. Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, may we truly allow the light of Christ to shine through the darkness of our world and the darkness of our lives. My prayer for all of us is that in the midst of the darkness of this world, we will have the wisdom to embrace the spiritual peace that Jesus offers us. As a community of faith, may we truly experience the joy and love of the Lord this Christmas as we continue to strive for peace in our world, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts. May God continue to guide and keep safe all those who may be travelling during the Christmas season.
As we get ready to celebrate the birthday of Christ, I want to thank you for all you do to enhance the spiritual vitality of our parish. I am deeply grateful for your willingness to embrace a spirit of generosity which, in so many ways, has enriched and strengthened our many programs, ministries, and activities, and has greatly fostered vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and religious life.
On behalf of Msgr. Marren, Fr. Bill, Fr. Colin, our Deacons, and staff, I wish you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy, and holy New Year. May you experience the wonder of the Lord’s peace and joy in many profound and mysterious ways.
It is a privilege to serve you and our faith community.
Fr. Neil Herlihy