Christmas Message 2022

Dear Friends,

Christmas is a time for togetherness, and I hope that you are preparing for precious time with family, friends and loved ones this year. It is a time for us to be thankful for family, community, health and happiness, but it can also be a poignant time of reflection, as we remember those who are no longer with us. We remember the Royal family and ponder how different Christmas will be for them this year without our dear Queen Elizabeth; we will be eagerly anticipating the first Christmas broadcast from King Charles III.

For many, Christmas is a challenging time, and we are grateful for countless great acts of generosity within our communities, as people reach out to help those who may need support or companionship over the festive period. I was saddened to hear from Welsh Women’s Aid, following our 16 Days of Activism against Gender based Violence campaign, that at Christmas the number of calls to their helpline increases threefold. We continue to hold families and victims of Domestic Abuse in our prayers. In addition, this year, with the cost-of-living crisis and the rising cost of fuel, there is a greater need for us to stay connected with each other by whichever means we can – telephone, email or via the internet, to ensure that everyone is safe and warm.

Amid all our current challenges and concerns, the love of God the Father is made manifest to us in the wonderful gift of His Son, Jesus. With the angels in Bethlehem, our faith moves us to sing: “Glory to God in the highest and peace to His people on earth!” We recognise that true peace on earth flows from our recognition and praise of God in our lives.

It is my prayer, that each of you will find opportunities to reflect on your own faith and relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ this Christmas. Whatever it is that our hearts and souls desire, whether we realise it or not, our ultimate desire is Jesus Himself, for this reason, we are filled with joy and comfort at Christmas to know that all that we hoped for, has been fulfilled in the person of the Christ Child.

With gratitude for all you have been and done in the name of Mothers’ Union, I continue to hold you in my heart and in my prayers this Christmas season.

May the precious gift of the Christ child and the love of God who gave him, fill you with hope and joy this Christmas and always.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sue Rivers

Diocesan President