Christmas 2013

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

Nativity Icon, proskomedia, Holy Dormition Chapel

For my friends and family, and those who might stumble upon this blog, I've included my Christmas letter with a few more photos.

 

It's been a few years since I've written a Christmas letter, but I've felt this year especially that amidst the busyness of the season, the best thing I could do would be to make a tangible effort to connect with people. Perhaps this is partly a rebellion against stores opening for Christmas sales on Thanksgiving. The first Christmas letter I received this year included events in someone's family, and it was good to hear what was happening, along with a personal note for a more personal connection. And so, I'm modeling my letter on that one, by example letting you know that I do read and appreciate the notes that all my friends send.

St Francis Mission, Greenwood, Mississippi

The biggest change for me from years past has been the addition of some community responsibilities, serving on the committee to plan our next province-wide meeting in June 2014. I was also blessed, in August, to give a day of recollection to a Secular Franciscan group at our mission in Greenwood, Mississippi.

Our used book sale did well this year, and I'm grateful for the help of many local volunteers. Our friary is grateful for the choir and other volunteers who helped with our annual prayer service and concert to prepare for Christmas. Each year, someone brings a lantern lit from a flame carried from the Nativity Grotto in Bethlehem. This peace light project takes this flame from lantern to lantern around the world. Br Gus diligently relit all of the chapel candles from this light, a sign of solidarity with people praying for peace in Palestine, Israel, and around the world.

Transfer of Peace Light to our chapel

I'm looking forward to a month in Mexico starting in January 2014, to immerse myself in Spanish. I find the little Spanish I know helpful in my work with the poor and immigrants here in the Hazleton area, but I need much more practice to move beyond the simplest conversations.

I was enheartened that both of my brothers were able to come for my Uncle Tom's funeral. I don't think we've all been in the same place at the same time for many years. It was a blessing at a sad moment.

My attention is consumed with many people to pray for. I cannot count the number of people I know who are struggling with cancer -- recently diagnosed or for many years. And other issues as well. Know that you are all in my prayers, but I would be happy to talk with you personally if you would like. I do reply to phone messages and emails. Our friary phone number is on our website: http://hdbfm.com/

May you have a blessed and joy-filled Christmas!

Jerome, ofm