A Christmas Message
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December 24, 2020Dear Parish Family,
As a young child my mother always told me; “the older you get, the more quickly time passes.” This is certainly true as we embrace the celebration of Christmas as a parish and as family. Indeed, this year has been challenging and has re-defined the way we interact with one another. It is my prayer that you can safely gather with those whom you love and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ—in the world and in our hearts.
“For unto us is born a Savior, Christ the Lord!” This very phrase is the reason why we gather during this holy season. Christmas is not about the giving of gifts, it is about “the gift” who is Jesus Christ born in our hearts. If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is the importance of faith, family, and love. So many families have lost loved ones due to this insidious disease…for them, we pray that God will give them deep peace. For others, what has been deigned as “inconvenient” has now become a moment of charity towards strangers, neighbors, family, and loved ones. Our very actions bespeak a greater truth…we are called to love and put the needs of others ahead of our own.
Amid what is seemingly turmoil and sadness, a Savior comes to us…born in humble estate, lying helpless, and totally the greatest gift that God has ever given freely to a broken world. This Savior, Jesus Christ, is the depth, breath, and summit of our faith in an unseen God. For today, God is seen…illumined in this tiny baby who at first glance appears fragile and needy. God draws us in to Him through this mystical birth and captures our hearts as believers in His message and promise of salvation—He will save people from their sins.
I welcome each of you who have chosen to join us this Christmas—either in person at Mass or virtually on our live stream. We are most grateful that you are here…like Emmanuel, with us! On behalf of the parish staff, Fr. Leon, Fr. Trung, and myself, we wish you a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Holy New Year! May we all endeavor to be kind, gentle, and humble before the creche. Let us remain united in prayer and strengthened in faith as we ponder a new year filled with hope in the person of Jesus Christ. Saint Michael the Archangel pray for us!
May God Bless You in this Holy Christmas Season!
Fr. Wayne Wilkerson, Pastor
