Christmas greetings from Catholic Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet. Click to view this video message

December 2022.

Warmest Christmas greetings from the beautiful Church of St Jarlath, Yarragon, where people have gathered to pray for over 120 years and to celebrate the birth of Jesus!

I think of all of you and your loved ones as you gather to celebrate Christmas this year. I picture the many beautiful churches across the Diocese of Sale, where you will gather to remember the birth of Jesus.

Our hearts are filled with awe as we contemplate the birth of this fragile baby. God chose to come among us sharing our human flesh. In the poverty of the manger of Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph present their child to the shepherds and hold him out to us to cradle too - Come let us adore him!

As we reflect upon this year, we remember those many thousands of people whose lives have been so affected by the devastating floods. Many will not be in their own homes this Christmas and lost so much. We are inspired by the witness of so many generous people who went to rescue those in need, to provide shelter to the homeless, to feed the hungry and continue to care for those in need. Seeing communities supporting one another reminds us of the goodness which truly exists and surrounds us – we see people at their very best in times of crisis.

There are many others across the world whose lives are currently beset by poverty, the turmoil and the violence of a war they did not choose – the loss of so many innocent people is tragic and the horrors which have been inflicted upon them. We pray for the work of nations to seek peace and the many agencies which offer solace and comfort. We might think of how we can support Caritas Australia, Catholic Mission and other agencies who can really assist people in crisis.

For some you there will be an empty chair as you gather this year. May you share your memories of your loved one with the hope of the promise of the child of Bethlehem.

Wherever we are this Christmas, and however we are this Christmas, God meets us, holds us, carries us. He is born for us. All we need to do is to open the wrapping of our hearts to receive the greatest gift of all, Jesus born for us that we might live.

I wish you every peace, joy and blessing for Christmas and for 2023!

Greg Bennet

Catholic Bishop, Diocese of Sale