Thank you, dear people of Queen of All Saints! Through your generosity, this year over 400 individuals will have a smile on their faces and gratitude in their hearts as they open their Christmas gifts. In a special way I want to thank the members of our St. Vincent De Paul Society, QASPA, Women’s Auxiliary, Men’s Club and the elves for their tireless work to help us ‘Share Christmas’ with those in need. Like last year, the ‘Drive-Thru Share Christmas and Merry Market’ brought together individuals and families from our parish and neighborhood for pictures with Santa, fun and games all in the name of spreading Christmas joy. Thank you for bringing joy and a smile to children and families in need.
When children talk about Christmas, they talk about presents. They can’t wait to rush to the Christmas tree in the morning and unwrap their presents. Today, we celebrate Christmas and, of course, gift giving is part of the celebration.
Yes, gifts are wonderful and it’s important to take the time and effort to give gifts and to bring joy to others. Part of the joy of giving and receiving gifts is the mixture of wonder, curiosity, anticipation, surprise and delight.
That is Christmas, with all its wonder and mystery. The mystery of the Incarnation is revealed to us in all its splendor. Jesus is truly God’s gift to the world. He is the greatest gift of all.
God also wants you to give the world the best gift of all, and that is you. It is all God asks at Christmas and at every other time of the year. Why? Because God loves us unconditionally. The only thing we need to do in return is to love God and others, with all our heart.
This Christmas may the Incarnate Jesus inspire us to give the best of all gifts – oneself! Merry Christmas and every blessing to you and your families.
To all who gather in the basilica to celebrate the wonder of Christmas and rejoice in God’s greatest gift, Jesus – Welcome! Whether you are a parishioner who comes to Mass each Sunday or have been away due to the pandemic, a parishioner who comes once in a while or a visitor coming to be with family and friends, you are all most welcome for this celebration of the birth of our Savior.
I would like every Catholic in the neighborhood to know that you are loved by God and that you will be received willingly and gladly here at Queen of All Saints. I want to extend a special greeting to those Catholics who, for whatever reason, do not regularly participate in the practice of their faith. No matter what you may feel is the obstacle preventing you from being more closely connected to the community of faith that is Queen of All Saints parish, I want you to know that the pastoral staff is here precisely to assist you on your journey of faith. We will do everything we can to remove any obstacle so that you may become more fully active once again. Please consider giving us a chance. I also want each person, no matter what faith, to know that you will be greeted with respect and friendliness as you join us this Christmas season and throughout the year. All are welcome!
May you and your loved ones have a merry Christmas and a new year filled with peace and good health.