Christmas Message of Archbishop Martin in Ireland "...the creator of the universe chose to become small to become a little child for us and that's why we use the term Emmanuel which means God is with us." Video

 
A very happy Christmas everyone, and I genuinely mean that I hope that you and your families can have a happy Christmas despite everything that's happening around us this year. This time last year I think we all had hoped that by Christmas 2021 the coronavirus would be gone, but sadly it's not and we're still dealing with all of the the fears and the confusions and the uncertainty because of this new omicron variant.  

Perhaps we need to hear more than ever the words of the angel on the first Christmas night do not be afraid I bring you news of great joy and I hope and pray that you and your families can experience some of the consolation that faith can bring to all of us particularly at Christmas time because we're celebrating the most momentous event of all time when God the almighty Father the creator of the universe chose to become small to become a little child for us and that's why we use the term Emmanuel which means God is with us I hope that God will be with you and your families during these days these difficult times especially I hope that those who've had to come home have reached home safely and that you can all have some decent time together as a family and if people haven't been able to make it home we can touch base with them virtually over the internet or by telephone just to let them know that they're loved and appreciated. At Christmas Saint Francis way back in the year 1223 decided that he would like to really understand what it must have been like for the infant Jesus to be born in a stable. So, he created the very first Christmas crib using live animals and real people and all the smells that would have been there at that time. Perhaps our Christmas cribs are a little bit sentimental and clean and cozy and unlike what it must have been like for Christ on that first bitter Bethlehem night. But it does remind us doesn't it that Christ understands suffering he understands our struggles and our poverty and all of our worries he literally came to be a human being like us to show us that he is with us in all our troubles Emmanuel God with us. So do not be afraid today a savior is born for us he is Christ the lord and I hope and pray that you and your families will experience some of the joy happiness peace and hope that this feast and festival brings for all of us. So I pray God's blessing on you may almighty God bless you and your families and loved ones this Christmas both those at home and those far away. I ask this blessing in the name of the father and the son and the holy spirit amen. Peace be with you and happy Christmas!