As we come to the end of our first calendar year in this wonderful East Lake Macquarie Parish I am heartened and encouraged by the distance we have journeyed in that time. Just as the Magi were called to follow the star we too are asked to move forward with Christ.
Sometimes it can be hard to move away from what we are used to, but it is the nature of our faith and our Christian journey. As part of building for the future, we need to work together to ensure that this Parish maintains relevance and viability extending Christ’s love into the community.
The Christmas story is about the birth of a baby, a baby that was thought to be truly special; people had looked forward to this child for centuries, and they had told stories of who he would be, and what he would do. He was born just like you and me, not a myth or a legend and, in his humanity, he shares our own struggles and challenges.
They believed that he would come and usher in a new world, one marked by justice and peace; and even though we don’t always see lots to encourage that thought, those of us who believe remain hopeful and we continue to do our best to follow the star.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
This Christmas, I encourage you to join us at our services, to share the celebration of that tiny child who brings each of us God’s message of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. May you and those you care for have a blessed and joyous Christmas.
Father Peter