Apostolic Nuncio’s Christmas Message
We are getting ready to celebrate Christmas and New Year 2021.
At the Apostolic Nunciature we are fortunate to have a number of Christmas crèches on display. They remind us of what we are celebrating. It is a century-old tradition going back to St. Francis of Assis, recalling Christ’s birth in the manger in Bethlehem. The figures around the Christ Child in the manger represent people like you and me.
This past year in the South Caucasus we have experienced trying times, even tragic and catastrophic events. During my trip to Armenia earlier this month of December I met, heard and experienced people’s trauma of war. Here in Georgia we have experienced political unrest. In the South Caucasus many have lost loved ones to the Covid-19 virus.
Today, in a special way, I would like to pay tribute to the many people of all walks of life, professionals and volunteers alike, all who serve the common good of society. The Church too provides essential services to society. Their generous selfless service is what charity is all about. This is reflected in the meaning of the Christmas crèche.
Even though this past year has been difficult, and many find themselves with uncertainty, pain and emptiness, the Christmas Season is a special time of the year. It speaks to us of something more than what the world can offer us. It is a season of hope. It was hope that motivated so many to give themselves in the service of the good of the neighbour during these times. We too must keep this hope and continue serving for the good of all.
It is also a season of faith. The Christmas Creche speaks of a better world. When we give, we give in thanksgiving and in faith of creating a better world. The Christ Child gifts his life for salvation. Mary and Joseph gift their lives for the Child and the world. The Magi gift their treasures. In fact, people are the great wealth in our lives. In praying, uniting and serving, we open our hearts and gift.
In the Spirit of the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity, I would like to wish all a Holy Christmas and a Blessed New Year 2021.