Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Seoul (Agenzia Fides) - The Light which comes to illuminate the world and God's love for the poorest and humblest people were the themes of Christmas messages issued by the Catholic Bishops of Korea. Jesus Christ comes to a world torn apart by conflicts, stunned by consumerism and indifference, disoriented by the lack of meaning and moral reference points. He comes to give new hope to humanity and to bring joy and peace, especially to the poor and the neglected.
Cardinal Nicholas Cheong, Archbishop of di Seoul, in his message wrote: “Celebrating this joyful Christmas, I hope that antipathy, hatred, conflicts and discord come to an end and instead mercy and forgiveness are abundant in us and all over the world." "The biggest tragedy in our times is that we have lost the true love," he noted, "If we love only for ourselves and try to avoid sacrifice and suffering, it is false love. The Church should first reflect on herself if she practices true love.”.
The message issued by Archbishop John Choi Young-soo of Daugu, reads: “ Christmas is a day of blessing on which the Divine love and His reign over the world have been revealed," and stressed, "We should share joy and practice love with the marginalized and the neglected." He also said, "When we share what we have been given, our love will not be dried out but more enriched." ”.
Archbishop Andreas Choi Chang-mou of Kwangju, emphasised that Christmas season is the time of reflection and hope, saying, "Christmas is the time to reflect on the passing days and to look forward to the days to come, along with the joy of welcoming 'a great light' (Is 9:1)." He also recommended the faithful to "remember the love of God who desires to give us the eternal life through Christ," and to "follow the footsteps of Christ.”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 21/12/2007 righe 26 parole 269)
