Light in the Darkness
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Our Parish Pastoral Council, made up of the Co-ordinators and volunteers with the Priests, chose ‘Light in the Darkness’ as the theme for the 2014 Carols.
This theme comes from the Gospel of John 1:5, where Jesus is described as ‘the Light who shines in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome him.’ Therefore, with Jesus’ Birth “the true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.” Jn 1.9
We could ask ourselves: “Where is Jesus the Light in our darkness which we can often find around us and in us today?”
I felt blessed to see and experience His Light shining and overcoming the darkness in those who prepared and worked for our beautiful Carols by Candlelight celebration on Friday night.
I saw his light in the volunteers, setting up on Thursday night, staying up until 1am and coming back on Friday during the day and throughout the night to continue the big job of setting up and packing up.
I saw his light in the Family and Youth choir members, in the musicians and their leaders, who practice not only for Carols but also for Sunday Masses and Adoration and who lead us to praise our Lord through the gift of their voices.
I saw his light in the children of the Parish, who sat at the front or with their parents, witnessing the Gospel re-enactment of the Birth of Our Lord and joining in the Carols.
I saw his light in the teens, who with their leaders, practiced for a short time and took part in the Gospel re-enactment and did such a wonderful Job.
I saw his light in a leader, who was willing to climb stairs and two sets of ladders to reach the top of the school building, to proclaim the words of the Angel to the Shepherds.
I saw the light of Christ in the parents who were filled with joy at seeing the efforts of so many who worked tire-lessly in order to make the night a special night and in helping to prepare their children for Christmas.
I saw the Light of Christ when the MC, at the start of the Carols, asked us all to close our eyes and imagine a world of darkness without Christ the light.
I pray that all people may have the openness to receive Christ the light of the world. May this Christmas season be one filled with joy and happiness, especially when there may be some darkness and despair around us.
