Christmas is the season that gives the Church and individuals alike an incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.

As many gather to enjoy the festivities with family and friends, let’s spare a thought for those whose loneliness is amplified at this time of the year. You may recall the questions the Beatles posed in the sixties which are still relevant today:

“All the lonely people, where do they all come from? All the lonely people, where do they all belong?”

The reality is loneliness isn’t biased towards one’s culture, social standing or financial status – it transcends all. There is something within all of us that cries out for a sense of belonging.

This is a great time to reflect on the gift given from Heaven that first Christmas and remember Emmanuel – God with us. What a profound truth – He crossed time and space to come to us. This is a gift that we can generously extend to others in this season of good will, embracing humanity with the love and acceptance of Christ Himself.

As we approach Christmas, the doors of our churches are open wide to welcome strangers, with a spirit of inclusivity that draws people together into a place of love and belonging. God’s greatest gift is available to one and all – an invitation to the solitary to find their place in a family.

We pray your Christmas is blessed and your 2013 is filled with peace.