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Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Every heart longs for hope. At Christmas, that longing is fulfilled in the child of Bethlehem — God Himself, who enters our story to remind us that we are never alone. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).

In that little child we see the reality of our own lives. We are vulnerable to loneliness, longing for love, searching for meaning. Yet it is precisely in our weakness that the Lord draws near with tender love and warmth.

The wonder of Christmas reminds us that God’s glory shines through what is small and simple. May that beauty open our hearts to welcome Christ anew.

As we enter the final weeks of the Jubilee of Hope, I invite you to reflect on where you need hope most in your life. Christmas is the season of hope — when God reminds us that everything will be all right, that all things work together for good, because He draws near and remains with us. No matter how dark things may seem, the hope born in Bethlehem assures us that Christ’s light will always prevail.

My friends, as we celebrate this season together, may the peace of Christ dwell in your heart. May His gift of hope bring light to your days. And may His love move you to serve Him with gratitude.

With prayerful best wishes for a blessed and joyful Christmas,

✠ Richard W. Smith
Archbishop of Vancouver