Press Releases
Bishop Good's Christmas and New Year message
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR MESSAGE 2004
The Rt. Revd Ken Good
Bishop of Derry and Raphoe
PEACEFUL GOODWILL ? A REAL POSSIBILTY
The birth of Jesus Christ was heralded as an event that declared ?glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace and goodwill to all people?. The festive season long associated with his peace and goodwill is here again.
In this corner of the world, dare we believe that we are closer than we have been for many years to a time not just of genuine peace but also of more widespread goodwill? I am daring to believe that we are and I am detecting that many others are daring to believe it too.
We have grown accustomed to the news bulletins bringing so many fresh twists and turns that we hardly know what unlikely development to expect next. And we all know how many false dawns have disappointed us along the way. The political world into which Christ was born was very much the same. Yet I have this sense that, in addition to a considerable political agreement/achievement, this Christmas we are facing the possibility of a time of more real peace and inter-communal goodwill than many of us have known for some years.
The politicians deserve our thanks for the measure of agreement they have worked hard to produce. Beyond the political arena, and no doubt because of it, a widespread popular belief is taking root that things can be different in 2005 and beyond. There is now the real possibility of building trust on a more solid foundation, without the shadow or threat of violence. There is a growing confidence that an equitable and shared future, free of injustice, is a realistic prospect.
And yet there is so much more that needs to be done - in healing hurts, supporting victims, re-establishing trust, forgiving others and loving our neighbours. Those who celebrate the coming of Jesus and who claim to live by his words and example must take particular care to demonstrate that allegiance by finding creative ways to make peace and foster goodwill. Such expressions of Christ-likeness will bring glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace and goodwill to all people.
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