Christmas Message 2020
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shined. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named wonderful counselor, mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Is.9:1, 5)
Merry Christmas! This year we are celebrating Christmas in the midst of spreading of corona virus infection. Every year, a large number of people gather at church and enjoy the nativity of the Lord, but this year we have to limit the number of Mass participants to prevent infection and have to hold the Feast without a party. Many people will feel sad. Also, I think that some people can't meet their family and friends at home and at hospitals, and they can't go to the church, and have a lonely Christmas.
But think of the very first Christmas. Only shepherds and scholars from distant countries visited the dark and cold stables. There are no Christmas decorations, cakes, or feasts. In such poverty, Mary and Joseph were encouraged by the smile of their newborn baby and renewed their desire to live in the will of God.
The opening words are Isaiah's prophecies about the birth of a boy to become king of Israel. The church sees Jesus here. The birth of Jesus was an event in which a great light shone in the darkness.
The light of Jesus illuminates us in the darkness where we cannot see the future. The child born for us is "Immanuel", God with us. Recall the very first Christmas and let us renew our feeling of walking with Lord Jesus, the Light.
Nara Block Pastors Team
Fr. Yanagimoto Akira (Moderator)
Fr. Jose Norella
Fr. Hon Yun Hak
Sr. Hattori Etsuko
Sr. Pauline Fernandes
Sr. Leena Faras.