Christmas Archpastoral Letter – December 25/January 7, 2005
To the beloved clergy, religious, and faithful of the Russian True Orthodox Church Archdiocese of North America–mercy, peace and love be yours in ever-greater measure.
Today, we see fear overcome, hopelessness turned into joy and darkness turned to light as we experience the birth of our Savior in the flesh. The world into which he was born was one of uncertainty, filled with fear and darkness. He, however, taught them that there are good things of which they can be certain. He taught them not to be afraid. And he overcame the darkness of hatred, of ignorance and of indifference to one’s fellow man with his example of love. He, himself, was the bright star that illuminated the long night into which the people of his time had been cast. And for those who were willing to welcome and step into the light, he was a new and radiant life.
The world in which we live today is not very different from that in which our Savior was born. We are still plagued with fear, uncertainty and darkness. Unlike the people of old, however, we are already aware of the solution. Christ is among us today, as he was in Bethlehem and he stands ready to dispel our fears, to take away our uncertainties and to fill our lives with light. Like the shepherds, the Magi and those whose life touched during his earthly ministry, we only have to believe in him and allow him to touch our lives and lead us from darkness to light. This great feast reminds us that there are good things and bright days to look forward to if we only open the eyes of our hearts to them.
The Birth of Christ is not a symbol of a past deed, but an event that continually provides us with hope that the world can be a place of light. We, for our part, need to gratefully receive the gifts that have been given to us through our incarnate Savior and commit ourselves to sharing them with the world.
May the gift of Light that is given us today fill your hearts and your homes with good things and may His peace and joy be with you throughout the New Year.
With the bestowal of my Archiepiscopal blessing upon you, God’s people, I remain
