ISLAMABAD:As Christmas approaches (December 25), Archbishop Rawalpindi and Islamabad Dr. Joseph Arshad desired that the Pakistani Christian community should contribute to the progress and prosperity of the country and spread peace and love among the society.
“Christmas is a time of Love, peace and joy. At Christmas, we experience the wonder of God through Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, as we all contemplate the newborn Child laid in a manger Jesus,” the Saviour.
He quoted a Bible verse to say, “For to us a child is born, To us, a son is given. And the government will be upon his shoulder; and his name will be called “Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Is 9:6).
Arshad urged the Christian community to come together and contribute to suffering humanity, especially for our beloved country that peace, love and hope may prevail in our society and we all may together contribute to the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
“We share love in and through our human relationships. Love is a commitment and a decision to stick by others, come what may, through thick and thin, when the going is easy and when the going gets more challenging. The love that we share in our human relationships is a reflection of the love of God, calling us to give of ourselves to others.
He went on to say, “Christmas was also about repentance and forgiveness. “At Christmas, we are to remember that Jesus was born in poverty in a stable among the poorest people and animals. You and I called to look for the face of Christ in the poor and suffering. During this year as we have faced unfortunate devastating floods in the country that affected millions of people causing loss of life, property and livestock. We continue striving to help these affected people, many are still struggling with unemployment, health, economic needs, housing and so many other issues and challenges. Therefore, we should reach out and help others with all the blessings of God.”
In his Christmas message, the Archbishop said, “Let us celebrate Christmas with deep confidence in Christ, experiencing the love, peace and tenderness of His divine mercy and let us pray together for suffering humanity that peace, love and hope may prevail in our society and all over the world. I pray and wish each one God’s blessings and wish all a very blessed Christmas and a very happy New Year!”