Pope Benedict XVI has told people around the world to celebrate Christmas not with “gifts” alone but also with their “hearts”.
In a recent homily at the parish of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Casal Boccone in Rome, the pontiff also urged Christians to support the most vulnerable in the society.
“Another point I would like to raise is that of the witness of charity, which must characterise your life as a community,” he said.
The Pope noted that the global economic crisis has put many more individuals in “situations of difficulty and want”.
He said of Jesus: “These people need you, they need your material aid but also and above all of your witness as believers.”
Speaking later to hundreds of people who had gathered outside the parish to see him, the Pope said: “Today, preparing for Christmas is very difficult. I know that people have many commitments, but getting ready for Christmas does not only mean shopping and making preparations, it means being in contact with the Lord, going out to meet Him.”
He added: “I feel it is important not to forget this dimension... This is not an additional burden, but the power that enables us to do all we need to do.
“I hope you maintain permanent contact with Jesus, that His joy and strength might help you to live in this world.”
