My thanks to all the parishioners who were generous in donating their time and energies to preparing for the Christmas celebrations in our parish.

In the past year we have seen many momentous changes in the world - who can forget the thousands who perished in the Boxing Day Tsunami last year; those who lost their livelihoods and their homes. But slowly they are beginning to rebuild their shattered worlds. The earthquake in Pakistan and the flooding in the Gulf of Mexico could cause the question where is God in all this? to surface in our minds. But God is there, gently holding all of creation in his loving hands and, at this time of year, we celebrate the greatest expression of his love - a child born in Bethlehem.

We, as a church, face new challenges ahead, but with the incredible legacy of teaching and leadership of the Great Pope John Paul II and the new pastoral activity of our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, we can face these challenges together and with confidence.

And, so as we end one year and move into 2006, let's pray for each other, that we may all come to a deeper knowledge of Our Lord who was born for us and grow in love as a community of faith here in Clifton. May God bless you all, and those you love, this Christmas time and in the year ahead.