It is hard to imagine that another year has come and gone, along with the joys and trials that have come with it.  As our year winds down we take this opportunity to pause and give thanks for the gift that enters our lives today.

            Today, Christ comes into the world to renew and restore to us the joy and love that may have been lost or forgotten during the course of the past year.  We celebrate today because God has chosen to come into our lives and make everything new.

            The Nativity of Our Lord gives us reason to rejoice and be hopeful.  It shows us a love beyond description.  It lets us know that we are not alone.  As we join together today with family and friends let us strive to bearers of this love and let it guide our actions and thoughts throughout the coming year.

             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,