When I was a kid I could not imagine how anyone could be sad at Christmas. Christmas is the happiest day of the year. Being in hospiral ministry, and being a priest I can now see how someone could be sad at Christmas.

When I go and visit patients in the hospital. I will see many people where Christmas feel just like any day of suffering and illness. In fact, the joy that everyone is expressing feels like so many needles into the heart, and a reminder that they are often alone in their suffering.

As a priest at the hospital I can empathize with this suffering. However, we say ‘Merry Christmas because the light has pierced the darkness.’ There is great reason to rejoice.

We sing

‘The Christ-child lay on Mary’s lap,

His hair was like a light.

O wear, weary were the world. But here is all alright.

The Christ-child lay on mary’s breast,

His hair was like a star,

O stern and cunning are the kings, but here the true hearts are.

The Christ-child lay on Mary’s heart,

His hair was like a fire.

O weary, weary is the world, But here the world’s desire.

The Christ-child stood on Mary’s knee

His hair was like a crown,

And all the flowers looked up at Him,

And all the stars looked down.’

This is what makes Christmas Merry. We celebrate with party because our Catholic Faith is a festive and merry faith. G.K. Chesterton said ‘ Where I find the Catholic faith. I find wine and cheer.’

As a priest, and especially as a hospital chaplain who will bring communion and anointing to many sick and dying persons today and on Christmas. I can understand how Christmas can be a tough time for many, especially for those who are alone on Christmas Day.

Maybe, this is what makes Christmas Merry. But it not a merry of wine cheese and gifts. But remembering that Jesus is the reason for the season.

Jesus is the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas to you all

And to you all ‘A Good Night.’