Papal Christmas Messages, and the Latest Article

Here are some significant moments from the Pope's Christmas messages. Also, I have a new article.

The infinite distance between God and man is overcome. God has not only bent down, as we read in the Psalms; he has truly “come down”, he has come into the world, he has become one of us, in order to draw all of us to himself. This child is truly Emmanuel – God-with-us. His kingdom truly stretches to the ends of the earth. He has truly built islands of peace in the world-encompassing breadth of the holy Eucharist. Wherever it is celebrated, an island of peace arises, of God’s own peace. This child has ignited the light of goodness in men and has given them strength to overcome the tyranny of might. This child builds his kingdom in every generation from within, from the heart.

~Pope Benedict XVI, Midnight Mass Homily,
for the whole homily, click here

Here is his annual message to the world:

“Verbum caro factum est” – “The Word became flesh” (Jn 1:14). ... This message is ever new, ever surprising, for it surpasses even our most daring hope. First of all, because it is not merely a proclamation: it is an event, a happening, which credible witnesses saw, heard and touched in the person of Jesus of Nazareth! Being in his presence, observing his works and hearing his words, they recognized in Jesus the Messiah; and seeing him risen, after his crucifixion, they were certain that he was true man and true God, the only-begotten Son come from the Father, full of grace and truth (cf. Jn 1:14).

~Pope Benedict XVI, Urbi et Orbi Message,
for the whole message, click here

And for my Vatican year in review Zenit article, click here.

Don't forget to leave those lights up and to keep wishing folks a "Merry Christmas" for another 12 days. Live Catholic! It is still the Christmas season until Epiphany (Jan. 6).

Merry Christmas to all!