What preparations do you have in place for this upcoming Christmas?

The days leading up to Christmas are often filled with joy and excitement. Conversations revolve around choosing the perfect gifts, planning festive meals, and deciding who will host the celebrations — these are all part of the everyday preparations for that special day.

But for those with faith, Christmas goes a little further.

The birth of Jesus Christ stands as the most meaningful and joyous occasion of the season. Reflecting on the origins of Christianity can help us better prepare for a true and meaningful Christmas.

We can prepare for a meaningful Christmas in many ways.

Beginning in December, the weeks leading up to Christmas offer a special opportunity for spiritual reflection and preparation through Advent.

Online resources for reflection throughout Advent are available, or you can often find Advent booklets at your local parish with daily reflections.

Attending Mass during this time provides an opportunity to hear Gospel readings that align with the Advent season, and for those who love to sing, Christmas carols are incorporated into the liturgy, further enriching your Christmas experience.

The Christmas season can be busy and chaotic for families, but it remains a joyful time, nonetheless. The excitement on children’s faces as they eagerly await Christmas Day to unwrap presents and try out their new toys is a blessing.

Taking the kids to church during this time offers a meaningful and heartfelt experience for the whole family. Additionally, your parish may provide opportunities for the children to participate in a Nativity play, further enriching the celebration.

Let us, of course, remember the less privileged members of our society. As Christians, it is part of our calling to care for those in need, and there is nothing more fulfilling than giving to those less fortunate and bringing joy to their lives.

This Christmas, let us give thanks to the Lord for our families and children, and let us also pray for those who are struggling, that they may feel the comfort of knowing they are not forgotten.

May the blessings of Jesus Christ, our Saviour, grace you all this season, and may we place our trust in Him. Let us also reflect on the words of Saint Mary MacKillop, who said:

Renate Cassis
Graphic and Digital Designer, Congregational Administration Services