Diocesan News23 Dec 10

Acts of Random Kindness - Creating Good News (Derry & Raphoe)

Recession and the biggest freeze for twenty-five years have cast gloom over the community even in the festive season. Perhaps for that reason Bishop Ken Good's call for us to show acts of random kindness to our 'neighbour' has struck a chord. In his Christmas message Bishop Good talked about the inspiration of God's generosity in sending Christ into the world. He asked "that we all be inspired to share and to give with generous hearts".

Bishop Good said "I have been deeply moved at the stories of simple kindness told to me over these last few days. We are going through difficult times at the moment - the combination of the economic worries and severe weather are testing us all. What brings brightness is when we receive kindness or have the opportunity to show an act of kindness to others"

Talking about the inspiration of Christian faith Bishop Good also referred to the encouragement we receive when hearing of people who face difficult circumstances and yet find ways of serving others. He said, "I think of people like Claire Henderson, a young member of our diocese. Claire has conquered serious illness and even found in it the opportunity to show kindness to others" He continued, "Her story of fighting cancer and then volunteering with cancer charities shows that we can all find ways to do something to improve the lives of others. Her story of acts of kindness is just one of so many people in our community. The truth is that there are things we can do to make life brighter for our neighbour' - no matter who they are. That's part of the gift of Christmas ".

Claire Henderson's story can be found on YouTube or on the Derry & Raphoe website. Just visit the Newsflash page and click on Bishop Good's Christmas Message