Christmas Message, 2021 from Archbishop Prowse: Bethlehem Amazement
Bethlehem Amazement
Sometimes we are offered the following Christmas greeting: “Have an amazing Christmas!” No doubt this greeting can mean all sorts of things. For Christians, the most amazing aspect of Christmas is God becoming human in the little babe of Bethlehem. For us, all other amazements in life flower from this fundamental Bethlehem amazement.
The Christmas scene of Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds, three Magi, animals, stars and angels are all stilled in silent amazement as they gaze on the Almighty God becoming a vulnerable baby in the humble stable at Bethlehem. Mary’s prayer becomes our prayer as she says for all of us in amazement that our “soul magnifies the Lord.”
During this Christmas and New Year Season, let us all magnify Jesus in our gratitude and humble response to all the amazing things that have happened to us during this extraordinary Covid year of 2021 – both good and not so good!
Let us show an amazing closeness to our families, neighbourhoods and cities where this time may be a real practical struggle. Now that we are able, let us visit each other- especially those who have had a very isolated and lonely 2021. Then our Bethlehem amazement will also have a real practical expression.
Rest up during this time! We are all tired!
God bless you all during this Christmas and New Year Season
Archbishop Christopher Prowse
Catholic Archbishop of Canberra and Goulburn
Apostolic Administrator of the Military Ordinariate of Australia