As we reflect on the past year, we acknowledge the many events, both public and private, that have affected our lives in various ways. We may have experienced joys and sorrows, challenges and opportunities, hopes and disappointments in 2023.
We also celebrate Christmas as a time of peace and joy, a time to share with our family, friends and loved ones. We wish you a peaceful and joyful Christmas, and we pray for those who may not be able to celebrate due to loss, hardship, illness or other reasons. We want you to know that you are not alone, and that we are here to support you as a parish community.
At Sacred Heart, we are still recovering from the impact of the pandemic. We are grateful to all of our parishioners for your dedication to our parish. Your generosity of time, talent and treasure has been a blessing for the Kingdom of God. We also thank all who have contributed to make our Christmas celebrations beautiful and meaningful. Thank you to all who have decorated our Church and prepared for the different liturgies, this season and throughout the year. And a special thank you to the faithful members of the various ministries in our parish, especially those who work quietly behind the scenes.
Perhaps the Christmas message this year 2023 is an invitation for all of us to become more involved. It is not just about giving more. It is about giving more of ourselves. That is what God did when he became one of us and entered our world at the first Christmas.
Christmas is for those who believe that Jesus Christ, Son of God, was born of the Virgin Mary to bring us together and closer to the Father. This is why He came. God will fill us with his peace if we make room for Him in our in our lives.
As the year comes to an end, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support and prayers during this challenging time of my illness. You have been a source of comfort and encouragement for me, and I appreciate your Christmas greetings and gifts. I pray that the Lord will fill your homes and hearts with His peace, joy and love, and that you will experience His presence and power in a new way. May the Baby Jesus bless you abundantly!
With love and gratitude,
Fr Gideon
Parish Priest