Welcome at Christmas

 

Christmas is a time of welcoming.  People welcome home family and friends who live overseas, neighbours welcome neighbours for a seasonal drink. We remember our families and friends who are overseas especially those for whom this is their first Christmas away from home.  We welcome those spending their first Christmas with us here in Clondalkin and our parishioners from other lands who are now an integral part of our worshipping community. The first Christmas was a little different.  There was no welcome for the couple from Nazareth who were expecting their child.  Their only refuge was a place where the animals were kept: not the most healthy or hygienic place to give birth.  God’s chosen people and those waiting for a Messiah were not the first to welcome him.  Instead it was the outsiders, the shepherds and those who travelled from afar, who greeted the baby with joy.

 

How will the Christ child be welcomed this Christmas?  Will there be space amongst the celebrations and gift-giving to receive the gift of a child who has the power to transform and heal, to comfort and disturb?  Where will we encounter the Christ who lives among us – in those who are less fortunate than ourselves and those who have made Clondalkin their home?

 

There are parish calendars for our visitors so please take one with you.  A new initiative started last year is Evening Prayer of the Church at 7.30pm Christmas Night, all are welcome.  On behalf of the Parish Team I wish you and yours wherever you may be a Happy and Holy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

 

Fr. Damian Farnon

Moderator Combined Catholic Parishes of Clondalkin.

 

 

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