A Shepherd's Message - Christmas 2025

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, we are reminded that God chose to come among us in the most humble way. In a world that often seeks fanfare, grandeur and spectacle, the Nativity teaches us that true greatness is found in simplicity. God became small so that we might draw near without fear, encountering His love in the vulnerability of a child.  

This Christmas season invites us to embrace peace, as Pope Leo XIV has called for since the beginning of his papacy. Our world is marked by war, conflict and division, yet Christ calls us to be instruments of reconciliation. Peace begins in our hearts and in our homes. It grows when we choose dialogue over discord and when we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us toward understanding and mercy. Let us bring peace wherever we can, starting with our families, workplace, school and communities. In doing so, we become witnesses of hope in a world that longs for healing.

Let us bring peace wherever we can, starting with our families, workplace, school and communities. In doing so, we become witnesses of hope in a world that longs for healing.

Mary’s yes to God is a model for us all. Her trust and openness set in motion the mystery of the Incarnation. She said yes not only to a moment but to a lifetime of faithfulness. Like Mary, we are called to say yes to living out our baptismal call each day, even when the path includes sacrifice and challenge. 

Her intercession strengthens us as we strive to follow Christ with courage and hope. Let her example remind us that God’s plan, though mysterious, is always rooted in love and leads us to life.  

Christmas is also a time to renew the bonds of family and community. In an age of isolation, we need real presence, which is why the Sacraments are always experienced in person. Social media cannot replace the grace of being together. God Himself shows us this truth by taking flesh and dwelling among us. 

I think of all the good work that is done by Catholic Charities, San José Clinic, Society of St. Vincent de Paul and other organizations and spiritual movements in our Church, like the Legion of Mary. They meet with people in a simple and powerful way. Let us cherish these days with loved ones and extend that presence to those who are lonely or in need.  
Finally, my hope and prayer for us this Christmas is that we truly experience the love of God Who comes to us not only when He was born in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago, but He comes to us daily in every moment of our lives. Jesus Christ waits to meet us in the poor, the suffering and the weak.

If we open our lives and our hearts to Him in those we encounter, just as Mary and Joseph did, we will celebrate Christmas again and again. 

Merry Christmas!