Firstly, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish each of you a very happy, healthy and Holy Christmas. The festive season is an exciting and enjoyable time for most families in Cork. A time when we reflect on the year gone by, and spend time with friends and family
At a time when it is easy to be taken over by the commercial aspect of Christmas, we should all take time to pause and think of those who are not as fortunate as ourselves this Christmas. It might be a neighbour, a friend, a colleague or a complete stranger. They might be anxious about money, worried about putting food on the table or lonely and in need of someone to talk to.
Christmas is about community, and while many of us are comfortable this year despite recessionary doom and gloom, there are others in the community who may not be. Over the past twelve months, families through out Cork have struggled to cope with the downturn in our economy. Families both you and I know. People living on our own road. Our friends.
Irish people are known for our generosity of spirit, and this year that is more important than ever. Instead of buying an extra tin of biscuits nobody will eat, or a novelty present that nobody wants, why not give a gift to your community? Or contribute to the great work that the St. Vincent de Paul does in Cork.
Let’s support those in our local community in true Cork fashion by helping those around us as we enjoy the Christmas festivities. In whatever way you can, reach out to someone this Christmas and keep the spirit of Christ in Christmas.
Nollaig Shona agus Athbhliain faoi Mhaise Daoibh
