Christmas

Dearest Ones,

A Blessed and Merry Christmas to all! As we move forward to a New Year, may we remember that no matter what trials lie ahead, we have a Savior who will bring us through them. He will strengthen us to face them and give us peace and joy in the middle of them. This is what Christmas is all about and all the days of the year that lie ahead. Weren't the first words of the angels to the shepherds, "Fear not, do not be afraid, for I bring you great news!! A Savior has been born!"

I enjoy volunteering at the hospital several days a week, delivering Meals on Wheels and managing the Gift Shop at the convent. I have time to pray. We are privileged to have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, so each of us has a daily Adoration Hour, along with Mass, rosary and the Office prayed with the Sisters.

As long as I'm alive there is still something for me to do. I think of my dear brother, George, who had a stroke several years ago and as a consequence is living in a nursing home in Kansas City, Missouri. He recognizes people, greets them and shows love the best he can. He is making the world a better place by his prayers and acceptance of his cross. I admire his spirit of gratitude and courage. He longs to show appreciation to his family. My two sisters, Rose Anne and Angela, are such a blessing and they are such a loving example to their children and grandchildren. I am also tremendously proud of my terrific nieces and nephews and their families.

Read something each day that will help you to love the Lord better - even if it's only a page. Don't think you'll wait until you grow old and then do it. Your eyes may fail you or your mind - it's too late then. Spend time in prayer while you are still able. Each day we can practice one of the spiritual or corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, visit the sick or those in prison, welcome strangers, instruct the ignorant, pray for the living and the dead, bear wrongs patiently and forgive offences. That is a choice that each one of us has to make- no one can make it for us.

I heard a great idea for Christmas presents that last forever and don't cost a thing: each family member writes a letter to every other family member, telling them what they love about them and thank them for something. These letters can all be placed in a basket and opened at a special time - not at the same time other gifts are opened. Some Christmas music playing in the background would help. Older members may help the little ones write their letters. This priceless gift is a good way of spreading Christ's love in a home.

Let's make this the best Christmas ever!
Sister Francelle

P.S. My nephew, David Sachse, writes from Amsterdam, Netherlands: The site of Our Lady of All Nations that Sister wrote about last week is located in Amsterdam. We have been there many times. Of course, it is convenient for us to visit and go to Mass there. My wife, Katrina, has a special relationship with the Family of Mary Order that takes care of this pilgrimage site. She helped translate the prayer into Chinese and obtained approval via the Bishop of Taiwan.