Christmas Message

​My dear parish family,
 
              We love Christmas because our lives have shown us that we can depend on it to bring hope to worry-weary minds and lasting peace to once-troubled hearts. The quiet calm and brightness of this season is a welcome rest for our souls in a noisy, often dark world.
We know that Jesus wasn't long in the manger. He grew to be the man of sorrows whose sacrifice saves us. Yet, somehow, he is forever newborn and sleeping in Mary's arms as Joseph, our patron saint, looks on in wonder. The shepherds are always in their fields, and the Magi remain on their journey. When we sing of these things, we experience something beyond imagination. Our songs do more than recall these historical moments. They reconnect us with them as we continue humanity's long search for truth. They tie us even more tightly to the ongoing story of Christ's advent and presence on earth. They help show us that, this month, our altar is Bethlehem-the place where Christ is adored in the Eucharist through the same Spirit that gave the Christmas star its light.
I invite you, then, to come to Bethlehem. Plan to join us as we celebrate the energizing, child-like delights of Christmas. If you are lonely, let us be family to you. If you are happy, come be family to someone who needs your smile and the warmth of Christian love. The St. Joseph community will again this year be a gathering of angels, of messengers, announcing that Christ has come to bring peace to people the world over. Having your voice and your heart among us will strengthen our proclamation of this gloriously good news. And, as always, if you are able to contribute to our Christmas Offering, your gift will help us extend the depth and reach of our ministries as it enables us to maintain our buildings and grounds.
 
I wish you a most blessed Christmas.
 
Fr. Allan