Father Greg Writes
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- The Second Sunday of Christmastide invites us to linger in the joy of the Incarnation before the liturgical season shifts toward Ordinary Time. The Gospel reflects on the identity of Christ — the eternal Word made flesh — and our call to recognize Him not only in the manger, but in the everyday moments of life.
- This Sunday is a gentle reminder that Christmas is not a single day, but a season of deep contemplation. The mystery of God choosing to dwell among us is still unfolding. Like the shepherds and Magi, we are invited to keep seeking, to keep drawing near, and to let the light of Christ reshape our priorities.
In the quiet after the initial celebrations, we can ask ourselves:
• How am I carrying the peace and generosity of Christmas into my daily life?
• Where might I still need to “make room” for Christ in my heart and home?
The joy of Christmastide is not meant to fade with the decorations — it is meant to take root, so that the love we celebrate at the crib continues to grow in our words, actions, and relationships.
“Lord Jesus, Word made flesh, help me to treasure Your presence not only in this season, but in every moment of my life. May Your light guide my steps and Your love shape my heart.” - “Peace be with you all: Towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace” The theme of Pope Leo XIV’s Message for the World Day of Peace (1st January 2026) invites humanity to reject the logic of violence and war, and to embrace an authentic peace based on love and justice. This peace must be unarmed, that is, not based on fear, threats or weapons. And it must be disarming, capable of resolving conflicts, opening hearts and generating mutual trust, empathy and hope. It is not enough to call for peace; we must embody it in a way of life that rejects every form of violence, whether it be visible or systemic. The greeting of the Risen Christ, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19), is an invitation addressed to everyone — believers, non-believers, political leaders and citizens — to build the Kingdom of God and to work together to build a humane and peaceful future.
- According to Aid to the Church in Need 5.4 billion people (2/3 of the world’s population) live in countries where individuals and entire communities suffer violations of religious freedom. More than 220 million Christians are at direct risk of persecution. In response, ACN has initiated a petition calling on governments around the world to implement in full Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the gold standard of religious liberty – the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, the right to change religion and the right to manifest religion in teaching, practice, worship and observance. Parishioners are invited to stand with persecuted Christians and all those who suffer for their beliefs by signing the ACN Article 18 petition, by visiting:
https://acnuk.org/article-18-petition-religious-freedom-human-right-not-privilege
- Please continue to pray for all those who suffer for their faith.
- Here below you can find copies of newsletters sent over the last three months.
3rd January
27th December
20th December
14th December
7th December
30th November
23rd November
16th November
9th November
2nd November
25th October
18th October
11th October
If you want a copy of an older item please contact: [email protected]