Below is the full text of the Christmas message from the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.
On behalf of all my brother Bishops in Canada, I offer you best wishes for peace, joy and health! May the memory of the birth of Emmanuel be for us the echo of our call, by the same Saviour Jesus Christ, to Redemption!
2022 has been a year of great events for the Church in Canada, for Canadian society in general, as well as for our Indigenous sisters and brothers. At the end of March, the three Indigenous delegations (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) who met in private audience with the Holy Father at the Vatican, ending with a general audience forming an assembly of about 150 people, combined with the Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to our country in July, have been the culmination of an important process of reconciliation. Several other steps have been taken to enable these events and to pursue joint projects.
The Holiday Season around Christmas and New Year’s Day is traditionally a time of strong emotions, encounters and sharing. In these moments, our personal circles of relationship also provide opportunities for reconciliation. Daily life, with its joys and difficulties, also brings tensions and impatience. By listening to the heart, these give way to stronger friendships and an even greater commitment to love.
In the same fashion, what is true of each person is true also of communities. Thus, our “walking together” as brothers and sisters, sharing the same living environment, leads us to greater solidarity, fraternity and respect for cultures and heritages. Canada is multicultural. Its citizens come from all walks of life. Our common mission is to create a generous society which is respectful and committed towards each and every person.
May the Lord Jesus not only accompany us, but also guide us on this path of growth.
Best wishes!
+The Most Rev. Raymond Poisson
Bishop of St-Jérôme-Mont-Laurier
President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops