Christmas 2009

December 18, 2009

Dear Friends, 

Once again, I am pleased to write to you at Christmas.  As we review the year that will soon end and we look in anticipation of a new year, we also continue to wait “in joyful hope” for the coming of the Lord into our lives and into our world.

Perhaps, more than anything else, it is this hope that characterizes the life of Christians.  In the face of the grave economic difficulties that have challenged our families these many months, we choose not to despair because we know that the Lord is with us.  We hear once more the words spoken to Mary by the angel: “Do not be afraid!”

During Advent and Christmas, as we focus upon the Birth of the Lord in history and his final coming at the end of time, we perceive his presence even now.  Baptized, we are called to be Christ to one another and to all. 

Every time the Church gathers for the celebration of the Eucharist, we are renewed by the ministries of the Word, Sacrament and Charity.  Formed by the Word of God and nourished by the Body and Blood of the Lord, we are sent in the power of the Holy Spirit to bring Good News to the poor.  Our communion with one another and the Lord offers encouragement to the weary and binds up the wounded.  In the Lord, we are never alone.

It has been said that in the most challenging times people rediscover the important things in life.  Chief among these are family and faith.  I know from hearing from so many of you that our family of faith has sustained you throughout your lives and in these present times.  I share your gratitude for your parish communities, your priests, religious and other pastoral ministers who are to us all signs of God’s love and signs of hope.

May grace, light and peace be with you, your families and your loved ones now and always.

With every best wish and kind regard, I remain,

Sincerely yours,
 
Patrick J. McGrath
Bishop of San Jose