OCEANIA/AUSTRALIA - “Put Christ back at the centre of Christmas” says Archbishop of Adelaide

Adelaide (Fides Service) - Just as children put the statue of the infant Jesus at the centre of the nativity Scene so adults too should put Christ at the centre of Christmas which has become a feast of consumerism. This call was launched by Archbishop Philip Wilson of Adelaide at his traditional Christmas meeting with school children and families of the archdiocese.
The Archbishop spoke about the Nativity Scene which renders visible the presence of Jesus in every family and brings with it “a message of peace, hope and forgiveness in the story of a God who became a child”. The Nativity Scene - the Archbishop said - helps us contemplate the mystery of God’s love revealed in the poverty of the stable in Bethlehem and grasp the real meaning of Christmas which speaks of the humility and merciful love of Christ.
Encouraging those present to prepare well for Christmas Archbishop Wilson said that in the present day consumer society the authentic significance of Christmas is often lost. He said people should prepare for Christmas with sincerity of heart and openness of spirit, prayer and reciprocal forgiveness because the Child at Bethlehem “is the Son of God who comes to redeem all humanity”. The Archbishop ended by encouraging all present, children, young people and adults, to put Christ back at the centre of Christmas. (PA) (Agenzia fides 20/12/2005 righe 23 parole 243)