“In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways… In these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.” — Hebrews 1:1-2
With deep joy and gratitude, I extend to you my prayerful best wishes for a holy and blessed Christmas. During this Advent Season, it has been my prayer that each of you and your family would find opportunities to reflect on your own faith and relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and His Church especially during this time of anxiety and uncertainty. Whatever it is that our hearts and souls desire, whether we realize it or not, our ultimate desire is Jesus Himself, for this reason, we are filled with joy and consolation at Christmas to know that all that we hoped for has been fulfilled in the person of the Christ Child.
Several years ago, I received a Christmas card with this message: “This Christmas, I wish you Jesus.” On the inside it read: “Isn’t nice to have everything!” In the midst of all our current challenges and concerns, the love of God the Father is made manifest to us in the wonderful gift of His Son, Jesus. With the angels in Bethlehem, our faith moves us to sing: “Glory to God in the highest and peace to His people on earth!” . We recognize that true peace on earth flows from our recognition and praise of God in our lives.
Christmas has a way of bringing to Church or to worship individuals and families who, for various reasons, have not been to Mass or the Sacraments for months or years. What a wonderful and grace-filled opportunity to put aside past differences and old habits and begin anew that prayerful relationship with the Lord and His Church community. Together, may we grow in strength and grace to know and celebrate together God’s presence in our lives and His dominion over all things of this world.
May our Lord Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem, bless you, your families and loved ones at this challenging time with a mind and heart of hope and grace. May Mary, the Mother of the Child Jesus, and our Mother, watch over you and our beloved Saint Joseph Parish always.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I hope to meet you in the Church and in our virtual church. May Christ abide in your hearts always!