In the midst of the flurry of Christmas preparations, and thinking of the emotional burdens that the season puts on so many people, let us remember that the central message of Christmas is a spiritual one: Christ came that we may have life and have it to the full. As we focus on the baby in the manger, we can be assured that Christ's presence with us gives us hope especially where there is worry or despair.

People continue to search for deep and lasting meaning in life, especially when faced with profound questions arising from tragedies and disappointments, whether global or personal. This hunger can only be satisfied when we recognise and nourish our spiritual lives. Christ is indeed the "bread of life"­the bread for all our longings.

At Christmas time we give thanks to God for sending his Son as saviour; we celebrate our shared Christian values and traditions; we renew our hope for a New Year.

We extend our warmest wishes to the people of the dioceses and wish all a Blessed Christmas.