Sunday, December 07, 2008
From the Archbishop’s Desk
December 2008
‘Listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches.’ We accept those words from the Book of Revelation, as we enter Advent and Christmastide. It is clear what that must mean for us who our Lord’s compassion and concern: be renewed in the longing of Advent and the joy of Christmas for the sake of everyone. Thousands come to this Christmas afraid and anxious; the burden of those wicked advertisements focussed on children that say: ‘Only £19.99,’ suggesting that only parents who do not love will fail to get it for you, will be felt severely. It will be even more dangerous than usual this year if the inversion of how things are meant to be continues: I mean a Feast followed by a Fast that means Christmas is over by about 3.00 pm on the 25 December; sadly that day of new hope and light is one of the busiest days for those wonderful people who serve as Samaritans. It will be a blessing for others and us if there is simplicity in our celebrations: if we seize every opportunity to keep Advent, for example by Advent celebrations of Reconciliation, when personally accepting the call of John the Baptist.
Once more the BBC will broadcast Midnight Mass from our Cathedral. Those coming are asked to be there by 11.00 pm. The Mass will begin at 11.30 pm. The BBC have asked we do not ignore the anxieties of many this year and offer joy when the usual resources presumed necessary for the feast are not there. In the power of the Holy Spirit the Christmas joy is assured.
+ Patrick Kelly
Archbishop of Liverpool