Archbishop Comensoli’s 2024 Christmas message

Over recent weeks, much attention has been drawn to the window displays in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. These displays have sparked conversations about their social history and the tradition they represent for families. At the same time, they've prompted reflections on the suffering caused by global conflicts, urging us to look at ourselves in our local settings.

This year, the windows feature a variety of displays, with a theme of animals and nature. However, one window stands out. It depicts a mother and a father hovering attentively over their newborn child. In this moment, they have found shelter and security, a place of refuge and safety from their struggles. They are together, united in a joyful love, at peace with each other, and resting in the grace that surrounds them.

We all know this scene, even if for some, the gift it represents has become hidden. In the midst of what may be a commercial display, this simple image reminds us of a promise that transcends time and place. Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus are there, inviting us into their lives.

Hope springs from this image; peace is at its heart. The Holy Family speaks to us of hope and joy in new life—to each of us in our own local families. The child points us to where peace can be found—especially for the world beyond us.

Here in Melbourne, we await this Christmas knowing far too many are suffering in the throes of war internationally, and struggle at home. As we look to that humble family from Bethlehem, how might we give special attention to how we live with all our brothers and sisters as a holy family?

Families, of course, are not always easy places to be, and they require a daily practice of love and self-giving, patience and respect, attentiveness and forgiveness.

As we see the loving gaze of Mary and Joseph on their Child, who is our Saviour, might we lift up a humble prayer, asking that God’s love and mercy surround us, and Christ’s peace and compassion flourish among us.

May you have a hope-filled and peaceful Christmas.