Dear Parishioners of Saint Polycarp,
“Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a Savior has been born for you who is Christ the Lord” (Lk 2: 10-11). These are the words of the angel to the shepherds of Bethlehem on the night when Our Savior Jesus was born. These also are the words proclaimed by the Church at the Midnight Mass.
A beautiful and majestic contrast is contained in this angelic proclamation of Christmas: The darkness of the night versus the brightness of the Star of Bethlehem. As the people concluded their day activities, God brought to fulfillment His promises: A Savior is born for us. The coming of Our Savior, the Star of Bethlehem, scattered the darkness of the world: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone” (Is 9: 1-2).
As I reflect on these words designated for Christmas’ Midnight Mass, my heart goes out to those who have seen Christ but opted to stay in darkness; to those who hearts have been purified by Christ but chose to dwell in sadness; and to those who have heard the message of love and peace but resolved to hatred and wars.
To those celebrating the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus, may the peace and love of the Baby Jesus shine and bring warmth to your hearts. To those in war zones, may Jesus continue to be their hope that one day true peace can be restored in their lands. To those experiencing the lack of love and warmth of Christmas in your family, may the Holy Family (Jesus-Mary-Joseph) be your source of closeness. To those coming to celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus at Saint Polycarp, be assured of my prayers for you. Do not be afraid to join the angels in singing and praising God: “Gloria in excelsis Deo, et in terra pax homínibus bonae voluntátis!”
With my brother priests, deacons, religious sisters, and staff: Merry Christmas! Feliz Navidad! Buon Natale! Joyeux Nöel! Chúc mừng Giáng Sinh!
Father Viet Peter Ho, Pastor