Merry Christmas

We are about to enter the Christmas season, with Christmas as a celebration of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christmastide, also known as the 12 Days of Christmas, starts on Christmas Day (25 December) and finishes on 6 January.

Just as in Australia, we celebrate the Queen's (now King's) Birthday on 10 June (or 23 September in WA or 7 October in QLD); Christmas does not mean the?actual?birth of Jesus (there is no known record of this), but a celebration and/or commemoration of his birth.

In early Jewish tradition, the date of conception of a holy person was thought to coincide with the date of their death. Early Christians believed that 25 March was when Jesus was crucified, and using this theological assumption, Jesus' conception also happened on 25 March. Following this tradition, Jesus was born nine months later, on 25 December, with one of the earliest mentions being by Hippolytus of Rome, most likely between 202 and 211 AD. Parts of Christendom have celebrated Christmas since then.

As we wind down from work for the end of the year, I couldn't help but reflect on the year that's gone by and the myriad of challenges the world has faced. Society today is more disruptive than cooperative, with global issues weighing heavy on our hearts and minds.

However, amid all this chaos, there's an opportunity for us to come together and find solace in the simple joys of life. With its magical spirit, Christmas offers a unique chance to pause, reflect, and embrace the peace this season brings. The world may indeed seem divided at times. However, I find hope in the idea that, individually and collectively, we can still make a difference by fostering love, understanding, and compassion.

Despite the external challenges, let us take a moment to reconnect with our loved ones, express gratitude for the positives in our lives, and share the warmth of human connection and create our own little haven of peace and joy. Whether through small acts of kindness, spending quality time with family and friends, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season, let's make this Christmas a time to rejuvenate our spirits and find comfort amid uncertainty.

May this Christmas season be filled with moments of serenity, laughter, and genuine happiness, and may we remember that, despite the challenges, there is still much to be thankful for and countless reasons to celebrate.

While Christmas holds special significance for Christians, the season's essence—compassion, kindness, and fellowship—is universal. May this festive season be a time of reflection, joy, and togetherness for all.

In the spirit of unity and understanding:?

• To my Muslim friends, I wish you a blessed and joyful time during this holiday season. May it bring peace, gratitude, and happiness to your family and friends.
• To my Jewish friends, as Hanukkah festivities continue, I hope the Festival of Lights brings warmth to your homes and hearts. May the glow of the menorah symbolise hope, faith, and the triumph of light over darkness.
• To my other friends, enjoy the time off and relish time spent with loved ones.

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I wish you and your loved ones a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a season filled with blessings, love, and harmony.