As we celebrate the holy season of Christmas, our hearts turn once more to the humble stable in Bethlehem, where the light of the world was born. We remember the shepherds — the first to hear the angels’ song and the first to kneel before the Christ Child — simple people who were invited to witness an extraordinary gift. Their joy reminds us that God’s love is offered to all, especially the humble and the overlooked.This Christmas, my prayer is for peace in our world — peace in Ukraine, in the Middle East, and in every country torn by war, violence, and fear. May hearts be softened, weapons laid down, and leaders guided by wisdom, justice, and mercy.Closer to home, let us remember those who may find this season difficult. I hold in my prayers the homeless, who long for warmth, shelter, and dignity, and the lonely, who may feel forgotten or unseen. A kind word, a visit, an invitation, or a shared meal can become a powerful sign of Christ’s presence in their lives.May our homes be filled with love, our communities marked by compassion, and our lives reflect the gentle light that shone over Bethlehem on that holy night.Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and peaceful Christmas.With every blessing,