Chaplains Chat

You can tell that another year is nearing the end when the Christmas decorations appear.  Whether this is in the shopping centres or on people’s houses, it is a sure sign that the festive season is about to begin. Of course, for many of us, we perhaps have a big ‘to do’ list that seems to grow by the day. The end of year jobs that need completing, all the functions and family gatherings that we attend and, of course, shopping for Christmas presents.

I suspect the last few years with COVID-19 has reminded us of the importance of family, relationships and spending time together. Christmas often brings these things together. However, Christmas also reminds us of the reason for this time of celebration. As the Gospel of Luke tells us of the angel who speaks to the shepherds: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). The birth of Jesus is the great news for the world, that this child would live, grow up, die on the Cross, and return to life, so that we might have life. What great news indeed as we celebrate another Christmas season.

Reverend A Benn
Chaplain