The Catholic New World: A Christmas message to readers from Cardinal George

You read this archdiocesan paper because you have an interest and concern for the life of the Catholic Church here and throughout the world. From doing so you will know that even in these uncertain times for the Church and for our country, 2003 has brought some bright and positive events.

The celebrations at Rome in October of the 25th anniversary of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II and the beatification of Mother Teresa have been a strong affirmation, with worldwide resonance, of the providence of God upholding the Church in the person and ministry of our remarkable Pope and of the continuing power of holiness in the Church manifested in the life and work of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. We can only be encouraged by their example.

In Chicago, the life of the Church was celebrated and given a welcome boost by the Festival of Faith which awoke for us a renewed sense of being part of the whole Catholic Church and of our identity as the Church in Cook and Lake counties. I am grateful to all those who by their presence and their work made the Festival a success.

In the country the Church continues to address the crisis caused by the clergy abuse scandals; despite what some parts of the media and some advocacy groups insinuate, the bishops are dealing with the problem in a positive, open and effective way with the help, locally and nationally of competent lay people. Our commitment to make our dioceses and parishes and institutions truly safe places for children is being backed up by deeds.

The wonder of the feast of Christmas is to reassure us that God is with us, “God Almighty in the feebleness of a Child.” (Pope John Paul II). His birth at Bethlehem was the beginning of that “marvelous exchange” which unites us to God, if we will accept that. It is the greatest of good news in a world that seems to have so much of pain and tragedy. Because the Savior is born, it makes sense to work for peace in the world and in families, to bring mercy; to reject violence, to hunger for God's justice. The strong One who came as a tiny baby at Bethlehem can overcome fear and evil and death.

In that sure conviction, may you, your families and loved ones, have a blessed celebration of this beautiful and joyous feast and enter the New Year in confident hope.