Today is a day to give thanks, because we receive a gift of immeasurable proportion.  God Himself comes into our midst and chooses to be born as one of us so that we may become the divine image to which we are called.  Without doubt there will be gifts exchanged in our homes and joyful faces and appreciation.  These will all, however, pale in comparison to the gift that is given to us today.

            As we celebrate, may our hearts be truly filled with joy, and may be sincerely appreciative of this life changing event that we celebrate today.  As the lights gradually come down and the gifts get put away, let us remember to allow this gift to fill us with light throughout the year and let us display the joy that it brings to us to everyone we meet. 

            Christmas comes but once a year, but what it has brought to the world is forever.  Let it forever change us and fill us with the eternal spirit of hope and love.

             May the Newborn Savior shower abundant blessings upon you and your loved ones today and forever, and may His peace and love be yours always.

            With the bestowal of my archiepiscopal blessing upon you, God’s people, I remain

Sincerely in Christ,