Rev. Fr. Jayapalan Raphael, SDB
Rector
My dearest Staff, loving students, parents and friends of Don Bosco,
It’s Christmas time. I wish everyone of you and your family members a Merry Christmas! Remember, Christmas is not just a day, but a state of mind. Let’s keep the spirit of Christmas alive throughout the year! Let’s remember the true spirit of Christmas:
Love: Jesus taught us to love one another, just as God loves us.
Kindness: Show compassion and empathy towards those around you.
Hope: Believe in the goodness of the world and the people in it.
Joy: Share your smile, your laughter, and your happiness with others
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, our world is still plagued by wars, conflicts, and violence. Innocent lives are lost, families are torn apart, and communities are shattered. In the midst of such chaos, we are reminded of the profound message of Christmas: peace on earth, goodwill to all. Jesus’ birth represents hope, love, and redemption – values that are desperately needed in our world today.
The ongoing conflicts between Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine serve as poignant reminders of the devastating consequences of war. In Ukraine, the conflict has resulted in thousands of lives lost, millions displaced, and a nation torn apart. The international community must continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution, respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.In the Middle East, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has spanned decades, with both sides suffering immense human costs. We must pray for a two-state solution, recognising the rights and dignity of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.
As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas at this time of wars, let us not forget:
1. The human cost of war: Innocent civilians, including children, women, and men, are caught in the crossfire, forced to flee their homes, and struggle to survive.
2. The power of compassion: In the face of conflict, we see countless examples of ordinary people showing extraordinary kindness, generosity, and courage.
3. The importance of forgiveness: As we strive for peace, we must also work towards forgiveness – forgiving ourselves, others, and even those who have caused harm.
4. The need for collective action: We must come together as a global community to demand peace, to support those affected by conflict, and to work towards a more just and equitable world.
This Christmas, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of peace. Let us:
1. Pray for peace: Pray for an end to conflicts, for the safety of those affected, and for the wisdom of leaders.
2. Support humanitarian efforts: Donate to organisations providing aid to those affected by conflict, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
3. Advocate for peaceful solutions: Contact your representatives, sign petitions, and raise awareness about the need for diplomatic solutions to conflicts.
4. Practice peace in our daily lives: Cultivate empathy, understanding, and kindness in our interactions with others, even in the face of disagreement or adversity. “Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day,” says Helen Steiner Rice.
As young people, you have the power to make a difference in the world. Use your talents, your voices, and your actions to spread love, kindness, and hope. May this Christmas season be a time of hope, peace, and renewal for all. May we strive to create a world where peace is not just a distant dream, but a lived reality.
“The Christmas message is one of peace, love, and reconciliation,” said Billy Graham. Let us have peace, so that we may live in freedom, and that our children may grow up in a world without fear. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. May you be filled with love, laughter, and all your favorite things!
Wishing you all and your families, a Peace-filled Christmas and a Bright Prosperous New Year 2025!
Yours in Baby Jesus,