Christmas Day - Year C - 25th December 2009

A Christmas Message from Archbishop Nichols.

"As Christmas approaches, our hearts turn to the Lord and to His coming into the world. We remember the fragile baby boy, born in a lowly manger in Bethlehem. This reminds us of the humility and loving generosity of God towards every human being. The eternal word assumes our flesh. This is the source of our hope, for now every human life is clearly of eternal significance.

"Of course, Christmas is also a time of good-will and I know that many people throughout our diocese, in schools, parishes and organisations, are working to help others in our country and abroad who may depend on our charity for food and shelter. This is particularly important this year, when many people have been affected by the economic crisis.

"At Christmas we share in the joy that Mary felt when she sang the Magnificat: 'My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour' (Luke 1: 46-47) for He has truly blessed us through His Incarnation. May that blessing be known by you and all your family this Christmas and New Year."