Bishop's 2009 Christmas Message
My Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, Christmas is a time to celebrate arrival. We welcome the growing light; we greet family and friends, and most importantly worship the arrival of our savior.
For most of us the lights and ornaments, the wreaths and wrapping are cherished and familiar. On the other hand, there should be something unexpected about this season.
Who could have foretold God would choose a peasant girl from a rural village to bear his son? Common sense would tell us God would arrive with pomp and majesty, not as a hunted child born in a stable.
And this year, speaking personally, I am happily surprised the diocese is now working with the claimants and we have filed a joint claim with the court. I take this as a sign, not just that we will soon emerge from reorganization, but this signals a promising new period of cooperation and healing.
I wish you a joyous Christmas. May the Lord surprise you with His grace in the coming days and throughout the year.
Bishop Donald J. Kettler
Image Credit: Hermanolean Clipart
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