A Christmas Message from
National President Shari Guinta
I know many Canadians will all agree that Christmas is the most beautiful time of year. And those of us who are Catholic and Christian find Christmas to be a spiritual and even emotional experience.
When I go to Mass on Christmas Eve and see the decorated church and the nativity scene in or near the sanctuary, I feel a warmth, a feeling of satisfaction, I would say.
I remember many Christmas Eves over the years, first with my mom when I was young, then with my own children and young family, and now today, when my adult children, their spouses, my husband and I attend the Christmas Eve Mass—that same warm, satisfied feeling. I love it.
I read recently that the word Christmas comes from the Middle English phrase “Christenmasse,” which combines Christ and Mass.
We know that we sometimes get caught up in the busyness of Christmas. I admit that I do too. It’s hard not to, especially if you have a family. And you know, that is OK, in my mind, as long as we still have that feeling of warmth and satisfaction when we walk into the church for Mass on Christmas Eve, whether with family or by ourselves. Christmas is still here. Christ is born; He is here!
As we prepare for Christmas, let us reflect, pray and practice devotion to help us appreciate the love that Jesus has offered us. I love this season of spiritual enrichment, giving and, above all, HOPE.
So my dear sisters in Christ:
With every Christmas carol,
With every prayer,
With every celebration
May we feel God’s love in a special way this Christmas
as we look at the nativity and see the Christ child
in the manger with Mary and Joseph.
May we feel that warmth and satisfaction, and praise God
in the Christenmasse. Amen
Have a wonderful, blessed Christmas!
