Christmas Message 2011

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM FR. PADDY:

At one of the school Christmas Plays I attended this week, there was a line "Its not the gift you give, but the love with which it's given, that matters most".

When Jesus Christ - the reason for the season - first came into the world, two hearts united in love turned toward him, welcomed him, and cherished him. The tiny body of Jesus may have laid in the cold manger, but He was safe and secure in the hearts of Joseph and Mary.

Christ came as a child into the world to make all things new (Rev 21:5). He came into a human family to reveal God's desire to restore the human family wounded by sin.  He gives us life, love, and salvation because of and in spite of our worst behaviour. Jesus knows we mess up, and he meets us there and loves us still. Jesus is not only the focus of the season, but of our whole lives.

In these difficult financial times especially, many will find that their gift giving has to be reduced somewhat, but more than ever, our parish, community, society and world need the love with which the gift is given.

Lord Jesus Christ, help us this Christmas season to turn again to one another and find our way back to you. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, please pray for us that our families may be happy and holy.

On behalf of Fr. Paul & I, and in conjunction with our Parish Pastoral Council, we wish you, and your families every blessing on the feast of Christmas.

Beannachtaí na Nollag oraibh agusAthbhliain faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise daoibh go léir.