THE FIRST SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
27th December 2025
Greetings,
Tomorrow, the fourth day of Christmas is the Feast of the Holy Innocents. The church commemorates the children of Bethlehem massacred by Herod fearful of the new-born king. Yesterday we commemorated St. Stephen, the first martyr, and Monday is the commemoration of Thomas Becket, the martyr of Canterbury. To some it will seem odd that this season of festivity and merriment should be marked by sombre commemorations. Isn't it supposed to be something of a respite from that kind of thing? Well, that all depends on one's understanding of celebration and peace. A superficial celebration is characterised by manufactured merriment and excess, of the kind that the world does very well, particularly at this season of the year. But we celebrate the peace of God which passes all understanding and that is not contingent on everything around us being merry and bright. Peace is a gift which must be taken to heart and when it is, the light of Christ, kindled within, burns without. To echo the prophet Isaiah, the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light, and that light, though we look for it metaphorically (be it in sun, moon, stars or the illuminated crib) is perceived truly by the inner eye of faith. The vision of that eye is sometimes obscured by the darkness of this world and the trials and tribulations of life, yet peace remains, Christ's gift in all times and seasons. The commemorations of St. Stephen, The Holy Innocents and St. Thomas remind us that the good news of Christmas is not only for those for whom life is rosy and bright. It is for everyone and especially for those who are walking in darkness.
May the gift of Christ's peace be confirmed in all our hearts this Christmas season and in the year to come.
Every blessing,
Charles Booth
Further contributions to the Blessing Bin for the Community Larder and donations of underwear (new), toiletries and sanitary products for rough sleepers would be most welcome.
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