In the midst of our celebrating the coming of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, into the world during the Christmas season, some are perhaps wondering if or to what extent, Pope Francis is joy-filled at Christmas since his Christmas homily or Christmas address, "Urbi et Orbi" focuses so much on the suffering of those who are victims of injustice, violence and poverty.  He does indeed speak about the "darkness" that exists througout the world including the threats against religious liberty and the dignity of all human life.  While bringing up realities, he ALWAYS turns to and rejoices in the "Light of God" that comes most perfectly in His Son, Jesus Christ, and encourages those who are children of the "Light" not to give in to discouragement or despair, but to cooperate daily with God's powerful grace to shine brightly and hopefully in every difficulty and trial, and proclaim that "the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness will not overcome it." (John 1:5)  Let us begin the new year committed to shining in the brightness of Christ's light and do what we can to curse the darkness and ALWAYS rejoice in His everlasting light.

A Blessed New Year to all of you and continued blessings in this Christmas season!