Diocesan News21 Dec 09

Joint Christmas Message from the Bishops of Cork

This year, a changed economic climate and, for many, changed circumstances, mean that the annual commemoration of the birth of Our Saviour will be different.  

The past year has seen growing unemployment, people falling further into debt and a shocking increase in a sense of helplessness and fear of the future.  The recent floods that caused havoc in Cork City and in other parts of Cork County as well as other parts of Ireland have merely added to that sense of helplessness and despair.  Organisations like SHARE and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul for example,  are working harder than ever to bring Christmas cheer to the people of Cork and more than ever, they are needed.  At this time, we salute and thank those who work with the many voluntary organisations in our midst.

Added to that, as we honour the birth of one child, we are all painfully aware that as Church and Society, we did not always honour or protect our children.  We pray for healing and comfort for all victims of abuse. It is understandable that many are not looking forward to Christmas this year.

And yet, that is but half the picture.  The central message of Christmas is that God so loved the world, that he gave his own Son.  That spirit of generosity has become an important part of Christmas and of Christian living.  The recent floods provided an opportunity for that spirit of generosity to shine through.  One caller to a radio station said that it restored her faith in human nature.  Volunteers provided water, assistance and time to save possessions and restore dwellings.  Many people are working tirelessly to alleviate suffering and bring cheer.  That is the meaning of Christmas. There is a growing awareness too that time is more valuable than expensive gifts, it is people that matter.

To all the people of our Dioceses this Christmas, we wish you peace and happiness and we pray that the coming of Christ this year will fill your hearts with joy and hope.