My brothers and sisters in Christ: At Christmas, Christ comes into the world and 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, “A Christmas Prayer”, reflects the essence of the season:
Eternal God, the hope of all humankind, you gave us the greatest gift of all in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Son of God, You came as God’s Light to shine brightly in the darkness of minds and hearts; bathe our world in Your Light.
Jesus Christ, Word made flesh, make a way for the Good News of Your Kingdom to reach every home, every heart, everywhere.
Protect and preserve the laborers who courageously declare the glory of Your Gospel throughout the world.
Provide for their every need and be their strength and joy.
Be the comforter, defender, and provider of the poor, the helpless, the cold, the hungry, the orphaned, the weary, the oppressed, those persecuted for their faith in You, the sick, those who mourn, the aged and the little children.
Reveal Yourself to those who do not know Your immense love.
Bless those who rejoice at Your coming!
Glorious Lord, we join our voices to the heavenly host and say:
“Glory to God in heaven, and on Earth peace to those on whom His favor rests!”
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.
As we celebrate the birthday of Christ, I want to thank you for all you do to enhance the spiritual vitality of our parish, especially in these difficult and uncertain times as we strive to cope with the sustained impact of the COVID-19 virus. 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 Fr. Bill, Fr. Darragh, 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.