Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Mexico City (Agenzia Fides) - “A united Mexico, for a shared hope” is the title of the Christmas Message issued by the Bishops of Xalapa.
In their Message, the Bishops recall the problems and difficulties in the region and in the country in general, such as the wave of violence that seems to have no end in sight. In fact, “the organized crime in Mexico is now a widespread network with complexities and corruption that allows it to undermine the control of police and local political authorities.” Specifically speaking, the state of Veracruz is strategic, as its highway network connects the 6 southeastern states, “with form the entrance from Central America into Mexico, where not only is there a great influx of migrants, but also widespread drug-trafficking.” Moreover, it has over 750 km of shoreline and several ports.
Another troubling phenomenon is kidnapping, which “is not only an illegal act, but also a direct attack of people's freedom and dignity, and a source of indescribable anxiety for their family members.” On the other hand, the economic crisis, along with the food crisis has led to an increase in unemployment and a worsening of the situation of poverty in which millions of the nation's people live.
The situation is posing a great threat and thus, “celebrating Christmas in this context is a call to Christians to reflect on our lives at the light of the humility of the manger.” Christians, the Bishops say, should not be discouraged by this situation, but should instead renew their hope, remembering that “these problems we face today cannot be resolved with conformist of individualistic attitudes.”
Therefore, this Christmas “is an invitation not to have fear, to rediscover the joy and hope that is Jesus Christ.”
They also recall that “celebrating Christmas is recalling that Christ became light and the path of life for the entire human family, so that we may not forget that following Christ inevitably leads us to proclaim the Gospel.”
One of the fruits of Christmas should be that of discerning the commitments of Christians in public life, firstly, “forming ourselves more, preparing ourselves for the responsibilities that each person has,” and imagining new initiatives to take action and spread awareness in the community. In addition, it means “forming social conscience and filling our liturgical celebrations with joy and participation that later has an impact on our practical life.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 15/12/2008)
