The peace that Christ offers is not just a superficial state or a temporary truce, but a profound revelation of God’s presence and salvation in the world. It is a peace that is rooted in justice and begins with inner reconciliation with God, leading to harmony with others and all of creation.
As we reflect on the global conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Africa, Patriarch Theodoros II calls on Christians to make peace a personal mission. He emphasizes that true peace starts within our hearts, and without inner peace, there can be no outer peace.
In conclusion, Patriarch Theodoros invites everyone to embrace the transformative power of Christ’s peace, which has the ability to unite and heal humanity. He offers his blessings for a Merry and blessed Feast of the Nativity, reminding us of the true message of Christmas – peace on earth and goodwill towards all. The flames of war are not just confined to the Middle East and Ukraine; they are also raging in Africa. Sudan, Central Africa, Congo, Mali, and other countries in the Sahel region and Somalia are caught in relentless hostilities, displacing millions, destroying societies, and robbing children of a future. These conflicts fuel terrorism, terror, and religious fundamentalism, plunging people into a vortex of horror and heightening the global sense of threat.
While vast amounts of money are spent on military operations and reconstruction efforts, our African brothers and sisters continue to suffer and perish due to lack of basic necessities like food, clean water, and essential medication. This stark contrast highlights the tragic contradiction of our world.
In our technologically advanced era, where we have explored the depths of outer space, we have failed to connect with the suffering of our fellow human beings, who are dying helplessly in the year 2024.
These conflicts are not just local issues; they expose global inequalities and our indifference to the principles of love and justice. Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, calls us to prioritize peace in our personal lives. When we cultivate inner peace, it radiates outward, transforming societies and fostering a culture of love and reconciliation.
Peace is a collective endeavor that requires unity and a shared commitment to building a world of justice, peace, and brotherhood. Without inner peace, there can be no lasting peace in the external world. Let us reflect on how authentically we embody the peace of Christ and how we can extend it to those around us.
The peace of Christ is not a temporary state but a way of life that should guide every aspect of our existence. It is a call to live with faith, love, and humility, spreading the divine light in all our interactions.
In a world that is in desperate need of peace, let us make it our mission to be ambassadors of peace, bringing hope and blessings to every corner of the earth. May the Lord of Peace bless us all during this festive season and beyond.
† THEODOROS II
Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa
In the Great City of Alexandria
Feast of the Nativity 2024
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