Press Releases18 Dec 97

CHRISTMAS MESSAGES 1997 from the Archbishop of Armagh

 From The Most Reverend Dr Robin Eames
Archbishop of Armagh, Primate of All Ireland

Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, the Prince of Peace, the hope for this world, was born in abject proverty. The scene in the stable at Bethlehem behind a third rate hostle could not have been a greater contrast to the pomp and ceremony or the powerful influences which dictate so much of our world today. From those humble beginnings the meaning of the Christian Christmas message has spread throughout the world and throughout history. But its beginnings speak so clearly to us all of the needs of the unwanted, the outcast and the deprived. During the past year our attention has been drawn to the needs of those who could be classified as 'the forgotten' through the publicity surrounding the deaths of Princess Diana and Mother Theresa. At Christmas in the midst of our rejoicing and our happiness it is to 'the forgotten' that our thoughts should turn.

Ireland has always responded magnificiently to the call when a world disaster is known. We contribute so freely to the needs of the Third World. But there is a real need to remember those who lack the basics of life throughout the year. It is not just thousands of miles away that human need is felt. In every community, in every town and city in Ireland there is human need. The poverty trap and the gulf between those who have and those who have not has never been greater on this island.

Christianity is no selfish or self-centred way of life. Christ was born and died for others. This Christmas I believe the call to all who grasp the gospel of Bethlehem is to reach out in prayer and practical action to the forgotten. The poor, the bereav ed, the lonely, the sick, the prisoner, the minority groups and those who do not know the peace and joy of Christmas must be the object of our concern. Only when this happens will we have a right to be called a truly compassionate and caring society.