Archbishop’s Message for Christmas and New Year

It is often a spectacular scene to behold how the revered Christmas season lightens up the souls of people, enabling each one of us to sing a happy Christmas tune. For a time it helps us forget the daily grind and complexities of life. But then again the Christmas spirit is not simply a feeling to enjoy. It is an encounter with a person. Love which is the cause of this joyful season ceases to be a vague idea or feeling but is now born in flesh, in the person of Jesus.

Our encounter with the love personified compels us to encounter our fellowmen too. Loyalty and sincere concern is the face of love within the family and among friends. It is commitment and understanding for married couples. It is holy perseverance and observance of vows for the religious. Love is also spoken and lived in our government when great leaders transcend the natural barrier of politics and decide to join forces to serve the people better. Love has a sweeter face when we turn an enemy to a friend.

 As we approach the holy crib with utter reverence and gratitude for the greatest gift that humankind has ever received, the Holy Child wishes that He be born in the cradle of our own souls.

We will know if He is truly born in us, if we are able to look forward for the coming New Year with great hope. Love is truly powerful for it is “the greatest of them all” (Corinthians 13:13). Let us fill this New Year with the love we learned from Jesus this Christmas.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to one and all!

+Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P., D.D.
Archbishop of Caceres