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2021 Christmas Message from Dean of Limerick


A Christmas message from the Very Revd Niall J Sloane, Dean of St Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick:

On the first Christmas, we learn that Mary and Joseph made two significant journeys, one of which involved a substantial distance. We cannot really imagine what it must have been like for that young couple. I doubt many pregnant women would choose to travel half–way across the county through treacherous terrain, on the back of a donkey to spend the night in a cold out–house! And yet, 2000 years ago this couple obeyed the authorities and the law of the land and duly went to Bethlehem.
In a strange turn of events, this Christmas we are been encouraged by the authorities not to travel. If we are, there is talk of valid Covid certs, passenger locator forms, PCR and antigen testing. Naturally, this has brought much frustration and upset. Many families, once again, will be separated this Christmas and unable to share the season of goodwill with loved ones.
As creatures of habit and tradition, many of us are being forced out of our comfort zones and having to celebrate Christmas in a different way than we might hope or desire. The traditions of Christmas are as much a part of the season as the birth we are preparing to celebrate. We long to sing the carols, celebrate in the company of friends and embrace those loved ones closest to us and yet, we cannot.
The question then is, how can we celebrate this Christmas in a way that is meaningful, happy and joyous. Perhaps it might be that we are invited this Christmas to engage with the Christmas story in a new way, just as we are being encouraged to celebrate Christmas itself in a different way. The story of Christmas reminds us that where God is found, joy can also be found.
If we look at the Christmas Story, we see that joy breaks forth not in the cities or villages, but on the side of hill amongst poor shepherds, to mystics from faraway lands and to old men and women who spend their final days in the temple.
The story may also illuminate where God and life and joy may be found in the experience of this pandemic. Here we might look to simple and courageous and selfless human deeds in our cities, towns, villages and local communities. The joy associated with freedom from restriction grows out of the grind of wearing a mask, of staying at home, and of sacrificing our own freedom and interests for the good of the larger community. The restrictions of a Covid Christmas, cheerfully borne, may well be, the seedbed of joy.
A happy and peaceful Christmas to you and yours and every blessing for 2022.

 

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