In his annual Christmas video message, Patriarch Daniel of Romania emphasized the spirit of “humble and generous love, peace, and joy” that accompanies the celebration of Christ’s Nativity.
Patriarch Daniel highlighted the biblical narrative where angels announced the birth of Jesus with the proclamation, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men,” from Luke 2:14, underscoring the unity between heaven and earth and the divine humility exemplified by the birth of Jesus in a Bethlehem cave.
The Patriarch’s message serves as a reminder of the sacredness of life and the Christian duty to pray and work for peace and goodwill among all peoples. He calls upon believers to celebrate not only the Nativity but also the New Year 2025 and the Baptism of the Lord with good health, happiness, peace, and joy.
In his closing remarks, Patriarch Daniel extended traditional greetings of “La mulți ani!” (Many years!) to all, reinforcing the communal and spiritual bond among the faithful during this festive season.
This message comes at a time when the world seeks solace and unity, echoing the ancient promise of peace and love through Christ’s Nativity.
Read here the full message:
Christmas is the celebration of humble and generous love, of peace and joy!
On the night Baby Jesus was born in a cave near Bethlehem, a host of angels sang: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14).
This hymn shows us that the Nativity of the Lord Jesus Christ unites heaven and earth, angels and shepherds, the glory of God and the humility of the innocent Child, the precious gifts of the Magi and the poverty of the Virgin Mother.
Baby Jesus is the eternal Son of the heavenly Father, who was born as a man on earth so that He might raise mortal men to eternal life in heaven (John 3:16).
The celebration of the Lord’s Nativity calls us to glorify God for the holy gift of life, to pray and work for peace on earth and goodwill among men.
On the occasion of the Holy Feasts of the Nativity of the Lord, the New Year 2025, and the Baptism of the Lord, we extend to you all fatherly wishes for good health and happiness, peace and joy, together with the greeting: Many years!
† Daniel
Patriarch of Romania
Source/photo: basilica.ro