No pandemic can ‘turn off that light’

Two weeks ago, in front of the newly erected Vatican Christmas tree at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis greeted the faithful with a heart-gutting message that resonated deeply among those who were there. He said no pandemic or crisis can “turn off that light,” adding, “Let us allow it to enter into our hearts and reach out toward those who are most in need.”

Pope Francis followed up this message recently when he urged Christians to look beyond the self. He said, “Instead of complaining in these difficult times about what the pandemic prevents us from doing, let us do something for someone who has less: not the umpteenth gift for ourselves and our friends, but for a person in need whom no one thinks of!”

Truly, the anxiety that the uncertainties of this year have wrought can be harsher for people in need, as more and more from all over the world come face to face with hunger. This Christmas, and even after as this pandemic continues to rage, let us take time to think of what we can do for them.

People have lost jobs, and having lived nine months in various degrees of quarantine have stretched their resiliency to snapping point. The beacon of light that is in giving will be truly and greatly appreciated. Let your light shine.

My family and I extend our prayers for more hope to families in these trying times. The light at the end of the tunnel is already visible; let’s hang on and hang tight. A blessed Christmas to all.

(For those interested, the Pope’s Christmas 2020 “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and to the world) message will be streamed live on Dec. 25, Vatican time. You can check Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord -. The Vatican also almost immediately posts the English transcript of the message.) Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord – Benediction Hall at 12.00

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