Today a light will shine upon us, for the Lord is born for us, and he will be called Wondrous God, Prince of Peace, Father of future ages, and his reign will be without end. – (Entrance antiphon from the Christmas Mass at Dawn from Isaiah 9)

Dear Salesian Family and Salesian Young People:

Christmas greetings and Christmas blessings to all of you!

For me it has been quite a whirlwind since the first week of October when I began the Provincial Visitations. I have now visited nine of the eleven communities in the Province. It really has been a blessing to visit the communities and ministries and meet with my Salesian brothers and many of you, who are our partners in the mission. Although it has been a joy to be with you during these encounters, I do honestly look forward to being home in my Provincial Residence community.

As you celebrate Christmas with family, friends, and loved ones, I hope you find the time to say a prayer for those who experience darkness in life. Pray with me that the light of Christ may dispel the darkness of hate and oppression in war-torn countries. Pray with me that the light of Christ may shine on families and loved ones in need of forgiveness and reconciliation. Pray with me that the light of Christ may shine on those who, because of illness and loneliness, are in need of healing. And pray with me that those who are lost, especially young people, may see the light of Christ in our Salesian hearts.

On behalf of the Salesians of Don Bosco, I wish all of you a merry and blessed Christmas. Be well, and be assured of my prayers for each and every one of you.

Sincerely in Christ and in the Blessed Mother,

Fr. Mel