A Christmas Message from
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.
My Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
During this season of joy and hope, God reminds us once again that He is closer to us than we often dare to admit. In the Incarnation of Jesus—the Word made flesh—the all-powerful, all-knowing and eternal Creator of the universe has chosen to become one of us, to be with us. What more could God have done for us?
Jesus was born humbly in a stable, surrounded by his loving family, shepherds, and even animals. By human standards, this is a scandal and, knowing something about stables, a smelly scandal at that. Do you expect God to be manifest only among the powerful, the wealthy, the “big shots” who shape our society? God surprises us. He turns our expectations on their well-coiffed heads, and we see the lowly are raised up, the first will be last, and the poor will inherit the treasures of the Earth.
Pope Leo XIV recently reminded us, quoting Saint Augustine, that “God created us without us, but He will not save us without us.” Each of us is invited to walk with God in the work of salvation, to live as His children, and to share in His plan for the world.
God’s ways are not our ways. High is low. Rich is poor. Power is service. Humility is strength. And most astonishing of all, the all-powerful God comes to us as a vulnerable newborn, entirely dependent on the love of His mother and foster father.
As Pope Benedict XVI asked in wonder, how can the eternal Word become a frail, mortal child? There is only one answer: Love.
The Christmas story is more than a peaceful family portrait. From birth, Jesus’ life faced real dangers and cruel hardships, yet others provided love and protection. During times of tension and uncertainty—times like ours—we find comfort in knowing that God does not abandon us or even keep His distance. The Good News of Jesus shines with hope, beauty, and the profound presence of God.
This closeness calls us to action. Are we living the Christmas paradox in our daily lives? Do we care for the poor, the homeless, the stranger in our midst? Do we work to protect the most vulnerable—children, the elderly, the infirm—just as Mary and Joseph cared for the newborn entrusted to them?
Christmas is a season of joy and hope. It is a time to give and share—not just material gifts, but ourselves, out of love for God and for our sisters and brothers.
May the hope that does not disappoint, the hope revealed in Jesus Christ, fill your hearts this Christmas, and may you give witness to that hope generously to others.
I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and joyful Christmas!
God be with you.