It would be nice if the Holy Night, which we will soon celebrate, were so quiet and intimate for everyone and the Christmas season so joyful and blissful. I think of the people in Ukraine, in the Holy Land, Gaza and Lebanon, of Syria and of course of the informal settlements near my home in Zululand. But wasn't it precisely this darkness, this distance from God, that caused God to send his own son as a source of light and peace, as redeemer and saviour into the unredeemed world, not as a deus ex machina, but as a defenceless newborn child whose human powerlessness showed us that redemption comes through service and devotion. If only the powerful of this world would show more courage to serve (humility) and more determination to strive for true peace, for forgiveness, faith, hope and love.
Two years ago, Mary, who had come to our children's home as a newborn and was raised here, called me. She had top marks in her matric, received a scholarship for highly gifted children and is studying sports science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban. After her bachelor's degree, she is now studying for a master's degree. She is a talented rugby player and is now a member of the South African national rugby team. She called me and asked if she could come back to our children's home for Christmas. I was happy to agree. When she arrived, she said to me: "You saved my life. You raised me. You gave me a good education. You encouraged my sporting talent. You made me a personality. As a national team, we won the first international match in which I played. I would like to give you the prize money that I received for that so that you can help other children as you have helped me." She then transferred 10,000 Rand (=500€) to our children's home's account. She had also brought Christmas presents for each of the children in the children's home and handed them out at the gift giving. My Christmas present was the joy that Mary not only has a clever brain, but a generous heart that was there for others with humility and gratitude.
At this point I would like to express my gratitude for all the generosity that enabled us to help so many people in need last year.
May the incarnate Son of God inspire all people to peace, shared responsibility and human love and may he fill the hearts of all so that everyone can have a happy, blessed and grace-filled Christmas.
Yours sincerely
Father Gérard T. Lagleder O.S.B.