As we approach the holiday season celebrating the birth of our Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to contemplate on the meaning and significance of this holy day as it pertains and affects us individually.

God sent His only begotten Son to bring peace and salvation to each of us, irrespective of race, color or creed. Each of us being loved unconditionally. With this love we are blessed and empowered to share it with our neighbor.

We gather together to thank our Lord for His blessing, to ask for guidance and direction for our country, our armed forces and for freedom throughout the world.. We come together in a common bond of love and fellowship to ask for the wisdom that passes all understanding.

May we maintain our vigilance through our Christian faith and not let down our guard over all the evil that exists in this world.

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, coming into our lives as Emmanuel "God with us", not at a distance BUT God with us NOW and present everywhere and at ALL times, may we rely on Him for all our needs and share the love He has given us with those in need.

"Behold I bring you tidings of great joy which will be to ALL people - Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel - GOD WITH US".

As Orthodox Christians, we are the inheritors and stewards of a precious jewel - a great faith that sustains, protects and strengthens us from all the terror and fears of this world.

Jesus reminds us that "perfect love casts out all fear". And St. Paul asks us "who can separate us from the love of Christ? Neither hardship or distress, persecution or famine or peril can separate us from the love in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:35).

During these trying times in our nation our prayers are extended to all the people in the world who are suffering and to our armed forces who are sacrificing their lives so that we may learn and appreciate how precious are our life and freedom.

May you and your families enjoy the blessings of Christmas and may the New Year bring you peace and prosperity.

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