Diocesan News
Joint Christmas message from the two Bishops of Cork, Bishop John Buckley and Bishop Paul Colton
The first step in confronting violence in society is a renewed respect for the dignity of the human person
At Christmas we celebrate the coming on earth of Jesus Christ - the greatest event in the history of the world. After thousands of years, Jesus Christ is still the centre of the human race, the joy of every heart and the answer to all our expectations.
God loved us so much that He sent his only Son, who lived among us, sharing our human experience, enriching us and giving dignity to the human person. Jesus reveals to us that we are all God?s children. His unique gift is love for each and every one of us.
Each and every human being is precious in God?s eyes. In the words of St. Augustine: ?He has made us for himself and our hearts will not rest until they rest in Him?.
Sadly, today, lack of respect for the dignity of every human person is present in our society and is the cause of much of the violence: in our country, in our streets and in some of our homes. This is a source of deep concern. It is destroying the lives, dignity and hopes of many families. A renewed and conscious respect for the dignity of each and every human person is the starting point for confronting this violence. That dignity underpins the need to respect human life in all its strengths and in all its frailties.
As we celebrate this Christmas season of goodwill towards all, we urge people to promote the dignity of each person as fundamental to all our living. Respect for this dignity has to be seen in our homes, places of work, wherever we meet, mingle and share in the varying relationships that make up our daily lives. The Good News of Jesus Christ gives us great hope, courage and strength to live as the Lord has called us to live.
Pray with us to the Prince of Peace at this time for a renewed appreciation of the great gift of our human dignity given to us by the coming of Jesus Christ.
Further information from:
Sam Wynn,
Diocesan Communications Officer
Telephone: +353 (0)21 420 1860
E mail: Cork DCO