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A Christmas Message from the Leadership of St. Philip Neri Parish
As I sit writing this Christmas reflection, the snow is falling, and the wind is howling, and I am grateful to be inside and warm and well fed. I have had the privilege of serving you for about 18 months and I am filled with gratitude because of your kindness and generosity. Is there room for us to grow? For sure! At times, however, it is good for us to consider and give thanks and praise for where we are in our journey as individuals and as a community. It can be discouraging (trust me, I know), if our eyes are fixed only on what is not good enough.
Often people tell me that despite their struggles, their sufferings and challenges, they are richly blessed. I must agree with them. We here at St. Philip Neri Parish, are richly blessed because of Jesus Christ and the many people who walk with us in faith. The support we offer each other and the support we offer the poor in our community speak of the Word of God that we are hearing and responding to. As I mentioned, I am proud of the opportunity to serve you, and I am proud of what we do.
Isaiah tells us that the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. That light shines on us and through us it shines on the earth and the people of the earth. Having said that, we experience darkness, in our families, in our communities and in our world; there is a need for the light God has shared with his people. That is where we come in! Within each of us there is light, and the world is a better place when we let that light shine, scattering the darkness.
As we enjoy this Christmas season let us focus on the light, how we share it and the people who need it! Let us be light as we pray, as we work and as we gather around our kitchen or dining room table. Let us set aside our judgments, our impatience, and our frustrations, and let us give thanks and praise for the light that comes to us from the people who love us.
Together we, the Parish leadership and staff, who serve you and your loved ones, extend to you a prayer for this Sacred Season.
Merry Christmas!
May you recognize the blessings of God as this New Year unfolds! |
