Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Today is a great and joyous day: The Word became flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary. “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us…” Although the world back then had too many other problems to notice the coming of a poor child, there were however people who came to see the foretold Messiah.  Their kneeling before the manger began the 2000-year-old adoration which continues until today.

At this night, true love is born and comes to us, and He attracts us by His humility and poverty. This event unites people of goodwill around the world. Even those who in everyday life do not identify with the Christian community celebrate this great day and night. It is notable that God Himself has chosen this time to meet with us and give us peace.

It is for us a great gift which we should welcome. Typically, we would like to welcome famous, great, and influential people, because the world is waiting for something that impresses or can be enthusiastically praised. Something small, poor, weak and fragile is looked down upon. He came in a different way, poor and undetected, surrounded by animals and their shepherds, in the way – it would seem – which does not befit a King, and even more God Himself.

All people of goodwill should find their way to Bethlehem. While we look on the Unborn Child, we realize that He is love. He is in us, and His love is in us. We are witnessing the great mystery that we explore and celebrate. Let flow this deep love to others and to God. Christ from the manger tells us that he needs us and urges us to live truly as Christians, to live life full of compassion, faith, love, goodness, kindness and joy.

I wish for you that today’s meeting of the new born Lord brings you lasting fruit in your next life. May the true acceptance of Christ: with all our hearts, and all our souls, and with all our life, empower us to do great and beautiful works of mercy. Let’s open up to the Child Jesus. Let Him be born in our hearts, homes and families. May He give you and your loved ones the peace, joy, love, openness, kindness, patience and all that we pray for in Church, at the Christmas table and in our very personal prayers.

Merry Christmas and God bless you!