Christmas Greetings 2024

The mystery of Christmas always captivates and mobilizes people – not just believers, but also atheists. It is often just a superficial encounter with the festive atmosphere of Christmas that is impossible to avoid. Long before Christmas, decorations appear to evoke festive feelings throughout our towns and villages. This year I saw a restaurant decorated with Christmas ornaments, as early as November. So, we are all, in one way or another, subject to influences; everything sparkles – on the surface – at least.

But what is going on underneath? What lies in people's hearts?

The key to the mystery of Christmas is the arrival and presence of Jesus. In the beginning of the New Testament, John the Evangelist describes the essence of Christmas, as follows: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14) John is also the one who, at the end of Revelation, prays: "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)

Let us pray for a Christmas that reveals its true mystery. As we are approaching Christmas on the advent journey, may this be our prayer: "Come, Lord Jesus!" Come into my heart; come into my family; come into my everydays! Come! Fill my soul ever more deeply with Yourself.

This way, we will have a holiday that enriches us and bring us happiness, whatever our situation would be.

May God grant us all a blessed Christmas, lived in the presence of Jesus Christ, and a New Year full of hope!

Advent 2024 

Szabolcs János Bogdán

Bishop