Kilkenny bishop: 'Christmas is a time to show kindness and build bridges of understanding'

One of the things I like to do on a winter’s evening at the end of a busy day is to walk around the streets of Kilkenny where I live.

At this time of the year, the streets are festooned with elaborate lighting, and the shop windows are filled with creative and attractive displays. This is replicated in villages, towns and cities across the country. In some places, outdoor markets selling crafts and food alongside family friendly entertainment add to the atmosphere.

However, besides these attractions, many communities also have outdoor cribs placed in prominent locations. It reminds us that alongside the commercial and communal aspects of Christmas, there is also a spiritual dimension.

Every year at Christmas we are encouraged to remember how, over 2,000 years ago, a child was born to Mary and Joseph in a simple stable. There were no grand celebrations, no lavish gifts, just a quiet moment in which God entered our world, sharing in our humanity. This is a powerful reminder that the true gifts of Christmas are not found under a tree, but within our relationships and our hearts.

For some of you reading this, you will spend Christmas Day surrounded by loved ones, laughter and the aromas of Christmas dinner. Others may have to go to work providing essential services and so will be unable to spend the day with family. Inevitably there will also be those who will spend Christmas Day alone, longing for connection.

United
Whatever your circumstance, know that you are not forgotten. We are all united, in spirit, through the message of peace and goodwill that Christmas brings.

The birth of Jesus calls us to reach out beyond ourselves. Especially at Christmas, we are reminded to show kindness to those in need, to offer forgiveness, and to build bridges of understanding. During these times, when the world can seem uncertain and divided, Christmas is a beacon encouraging us to come together, to heal, and to celebrate our common humanity.

If you know someone who is struggling, lonely or grieving, I invite you to reach out. A simple phone call, a card, or an invitation to share a coffee or a meal can make all the difference. This Christmas let us be generous with our time, patient in our dealings, and compassionate in our hearts.

As the bells ring out this Christmas Day, we offer a prayer for peace and hope, here in Ireland and across the world. We continue to remember those in Gaza, the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere who live where there is conflict and suffering, as well as those rebuilding lives and communities after natural disasters. May the message of the angels, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and peace to people of good will’ inspire us to build communities of welcome and justice, to protect the vulnerable, and to cherish each person’s dignity.

Of course, Christmas is more than a day, it is a promise that light will always overcome darkness, that love endures, and that faith gives us strength for the journey ahead. As we exchange gifts, sing carols, and share in festivity, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas and carry its spirit with us throughout the year.

May God bless you and your families with joy, health, and peace this Christmas and in the year to come.
Nollaig shona daoibh, Happy Christmas to all.