Christmas is a special time of joy for the Church, and this year, despite unprecedented challenges, should be no exception.
SILENT CONTEMPLATION
The pope has explained that on Christmas, God surprised the world. He didn't give Jesus' parents any luxuries. Instead, the family was forced to flee to Egypt. That's why Pope Francis has invited the faithful to silently contemplate the first Christmas.
POPE FRANCIS
December 19, 2018
“Christmas is preferring the silent voice of God to the turmoil of consumerism. FLASH This is the invitation for Christmas. Take some time, stand in front of the manger and be silent.”
LETTING ONESELF BE SURPRISED
Contemplating the first Christmas helps discover things like Mary and Joseph's ability to accept the continuous changes God places in their path. The pope has recommended imitating this attitude of acceptance.
POPE FRANCIS
December 19, 2018
“Each one of us has hidden in our hearts the ability to be surprised. Let us allow ourselves to be surprised by Jesus this Christmas. Thank you.”
A TIME OF HOPE
God's arrival in the world, which is celebrated on Christmas day, fills people's lives with strength. The pope has explained that this event helps one continue walking despite hardships.
POPE FRANCIS
December 21, 2016
“Hope is always on the move, and it makes us be on the move. We can ask ourselves, 'Do I journey in hope, or is my interior life stopped, shut down? Is my heart a closed drawer or an open drawer to the hope that helps us journey with Jesus?' It is a good question.”
CHRISTMAS DURING THE PANDEMIC
Though Christmas may seem different this year, Pope Francis has offered some suggestions to live out this unique moment in history with intensity.
POPE FRANCIS
November 30, 2020
“Let us try to bring out the good even from the difficult situation that the pandemic imposes upon us: greater sobriety, discreet and respectful attention to others who may be in need, some prayer also within the family, with simplicity. These three things will help us greatly.”
Silently contemplating the first Christmas, letting oneself be surprised and holding on to hope are all important ways to live out this Christmas season with strength and faith, despite the challenges of the times.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translation: CT
