My beloved children in the lands of immigration, both clergy and laity.
Peace to you and grace. My congratulations for the Feast of Nativity of our Lord, to Whom is Glory.
Be all well, shepherded by God who keeps you. May we hear all good about you. May you have contemplations in the Glorious Nativity and its happenings.
As for us, I want you not to worry about us – we are well……
The painful circumstances that happened to us have brought compassion upon us from all sides, as well as extreme care and eagerness in protecting the churches, as well as care for our cause. Also, tribulation, by its nature, makes the soul closer to God. And we believe that God is the Protector and Helper, and that “unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” We also believe the promise of the Lord to His Church, that the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. Therefore all are in peacefulness.
Be calm all of you, assured of the work of the Lord, and all of you to rejoice in this Feast, for it is the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, and I mean, His Incarnation was the starting point for all the good that graced humanity till it was crowned with redemption. As well, the Incarnation was proof of the love of God to us, and the reconciliation that was fulfilled between heaven and earth.
Rejoice in the Lord my dear children, and again I say rejoice. In all circumstances that pass by you, say “it’s all for good.”
Finally, my love to you all.
Be absolved from the Holy Spirit.
A blessed season to you all.
(Signed)
Shenouda
Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark
January 2011
Read the Papal Message in Arabic
