‘Christmas a time to focus on family’
THE Catholic Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne is urging everyone to renew family bonds this
Christmas.
In his Christmas message, the Bishop suggests that people might take the time to look back over their family histories with the aid of old photographs in a renewed celebration of what it means to belong to one another by blood.
His message comes ahead of the World
Meeting of Families in 2018, a global Catholic celebration of the family unit.
“The heart of Christmas is amazing: that the baby born to Mary and Joseph, was God coming to be with all people on earth,” Bishop
Browne’s message began.
“A happy and a blessed Christmas to one and all. Enjoy the presence of children. Have time for family, neighbours, family and friends. Let no neighbour’s Christmas day be long and lonely because no one comes to visit. Be generous to needy causes, give what you can. Have time for God. Have time to say a prayer and count your blessings. Especially give thanks for the goodness of the people in your life. Let us all gather together in church to joyfully give praise and thanks to God.
“This Christmas, mindful of the World Meeting of Families in 2018 ( WMF 2018), let us remember the story of our own families over the past two or three generations, the joys and the sorrow, the births and the deaths. Maybe even look through old photographs. In families, periods of enormous loss or pain are so often followed by genuine healing and new hope and happiness. Recalling the past, see the wonderful loyalty, care and love of your own family through the decades.
“Pray that worldwide all families will one day have the opportunities that we take for granted in Ireland. WMF2018 asks us to see all people on earth as one family under God Our loving Father. It will call on the whole world to appreciate and give priority to family life. Remember especially families in Ireland with no hope of a place to call home.
“Home, family and marriage are God’s greatest gifts to humanity. God bless all our homes and families.” Thanking all who contributed to the life of their parish during the year, Bishop Browne concluded by praying for grace and peace in every home.