Bishop Robert P. Deeley of the Catholic Diocese of Portland issued the following Christmas message:
“Blessings and peace to all of you as we celebrate the nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The child who was born in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago was God himself, born into humanity to draw every person into His love and friendship. Jesus was born into poverty because he came for all people, including the sinful and the broken, and to show us that every person is deserving of God’s love.
For this reason, Christmas is a gift for each of us. Christmas is the incarnation of God’s love, filling our hearts with joy, peace, and wonder. When we accept God’s love, we can help transform our world through lives of generosity and gratitude helping family, friends, and those in need among us to walk in truth and light.
Let us make the best of this Christmas and allow God’s love and joy to flame brightly in our hearts. May you and your loved ones have a blessed and holy Christmas.”
