Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As we come close to the end of 2020, we do so having experienced many difficulties and challenges this year. Suffering of one kind and another has been real and the hope for an end to this pandemic is also at the forefront of our hearts and mind. Yet, we are also hoping that our world would find ways to bond together more intentionally in addressing the many challenges that we face as a human family.
Locally within our own Catholic community of Christ the Light, we can’t help but acknowledge the many signs of compassion that were revealed during these last several months. Members of our faith community have been generous in reaching out to keep in touch with others and especially those in need. Our Parish Care Call group was all a part of this. While we were unable to gather for the Eucharist, we were fortunate to be able to offer a parish live-streaming mass over these last several months. We especially thank all those who made this a possibility and many have appreciated the opportunity to be connected with each other in our faith journey in this way. The efforts in which our school staffs and parents sought to educate their children through home learning revealed to us all how precious their growth as human beings is to us all.
As we continue to go through these challenging times, our world is longing for healing and also for a renewed sense of hope. The celebration of the birth of Christ speaks to us that our God who is not distant from us but One who’s love is revealed in the most profound way in the birth of Jesus. God joins our humanity. He is our Emmanuel, God with us. He comes as a source of hope and light for us and for all in our world.
May this celebration of the birth of Jesus remind us that in the midst of this pandemic God’s love comes close to us. May our hearts be opened anew to this wonderful gift of the Lord’s presence who seeks to accompany us and to give us new hope and courage in these challenging times.
Fr Martin Ashe, Parish Priest.
The Parish Team joins Fr Martin in wishing you and your families the blessings and joys of the Christmas Season.
Fr Shymon Thekkekalathungal, Sandy Starbuck, Monique Heckmann, Margaret Stanford.