TO LIVE AND TO LOVE: THAT'S CHRISTMAS!

The birth of the child Jesus sparks great joy throughout the world, along with numerous celebrations far beyond Christian communities! The God of Christians is the God of Love, the God of Peace, the God of Justice and Solidarity.

He sends his Son to teach human beings to live and love as He loves in the heart of the Holy Trinity. It is this Love that He offers us in the birth of Jesus, which we celebrate at Christmas.

Thanks to the openness of Mary and Joseph, who accepted him, this plan is fulfilled for our benefit.

At Christmas, if we are receptive, a vast star of Happiness and Warmth illuminates everyone's heart.

This wondrous birth unfolds in the simplicity and political circumstances of the time.

Saint Francis of Assisi made the beauty of the mystery of the Incarnation accessible to each of us, children and adults alike, in the representation of the Nativity, which has become familiar throughout the world!

God comes to dwell among us, as is the case for every newborn child. This is a call to respect all human life that also comes to inhabit our earth. Let us have open hearts and the necessary attentiveness to recognize those who need our help to experience the joy of Christmas.

Christmas strengthens our perseverance in building together a world where the marginalized of our societies are valued.

May the Holy Spirit enlighten us. May He give us the courage to show signs of God's love for each of His children. For Christmas is love. We are its beneficiaries, but also its messengers.

Happy Christmas to you!

Bishop Christian Nourrichard
Ecclesiastical Assistant