A Christmas Message from our Parish Priest
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
“The Mercy of God is revealed in the face of Our Lord Jesus Christ,” said Pope Francis in his presentation of the Year of Mercy. “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counsellor, Mighty-God, Eternal-Father, Prince of Peace.” (Is 9:5) It is a child in a manger that comes to us to proclaim the Good News of the Love and Mercy of God! To proclaim our salvation!
As we gather to celebrate Christmas, another year has passed with many events, public and private, touching our lives in different ways. No doubt this year has brought joys and sadness in different measure to each person, all colouring our memories of 2018.
Traditionally, we see Christmas as a time of peace and joy, a time to celebrate with family, with friends and loved ones. We do hope that your Christmas will have something of that peace, joy and celebration. Such joyful celebrations may not be possible for some. You may have lost a loved one since last Christmas, or you may be overburdened by money worries, family problems or for many other reasons. If you are, we want to assure you that, as a parish community, we do care and offer you our support.
I would like to thank all of our parishioners for your commitment to our parish this past year. The giving of your time, talent and treasure to the Lord continues to bear fruit for the Kingdom of God. I would also like to extend my gratitude to all who worked so hard to make our Christmas celebrations truly wonderful. Thanks to all who were involved in decorating our church and setting up for the different liturgies, this season and throughout the liturgical year. And a special thank you to the devoted members of the various ministry’s in our parish and especially to those few who work quietly, behind the scenes.
Maybe the Christmas message this year is a challenge for all of us to become more involved. It is not so much a question of giving more; it is a question of giving more of ourselves. After all, that’s what God was doing when he got involved with us and our world at the first Christmas. God will fill us with his peace if there is room in our lives for him.
Thank you for helping us along the journey. May you be blessed with peace and joy at Christmas and in the New Year.
Fr Jerald
