CHRIST IS BORN!
GLORIFY HIM!
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
On this festive day of Christ’s Nativity, we once again experience the magnificent moment of the birth of our Savior. This celebration reminds us of the greatest gift God has given humanity—His Only Begotten Son, who came into the world to bring peace, love, and salvation. At the moment when the star over Bethlehem shone brightly, pointing the way to the newborn King, a hope entered the world that transforms lives, heals hearts, and opens the door to eternity.
Today, Ukraine is passing through the darkness of war, suffering, and pain. Our cities and villages endure bombings, our families are divided by the horrors of war, and our hearts are filled with anxiety about the future. Yet, it is precisely at this time that we need the light of Christmas most. Christ is born in the Bethlehem manger to become light in our darkness, comfort for wounded souls, and hope for those in despair.
The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem is a reminder that even in the most difficult times, God does not abandon us. He comes into a world filled with hatred and injustice to transform it with His love. Christmas is a celebration of the victory of light over darkness, peace over war, and life over death. The Son of God comes so that each of us may feel His presence even in the deepest sorrow.
This Christmas, we pray for peace in Ukraine. We ask the Lord to bless our soldiers, who bravely defend our land; to protect our mothers and children, forced to hide from the horrors of war; and to comfort those who have lost loved ones. We believe that Christ is our Emmanuel, which means “God is with us,” and this faith gives us the strength to stand and fight, to love and forgive.
May this Christmas bring us hope for the restoration of peace, the revival of our country, and the unity of our people. Let us remember that even the darkest night is followed by dawn. Just as Christ triumphed over death through His resurrection, so too do we believe that the light of truth and goodness will overcome the darkness of war.
May the light of the Bethlehem star shine in every home, bringing harmony, faith, and love, which we so long for in these challenging times. May the newborn Christ bless each of us for good deeds, strengthen us in faith, and grant Ukraine a peaceful and happy future.
Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
United in Christmas joy, your servant,
Fr. Roman Bobesiuk