As the fourth candle in the Advent wreath is lit and we remember the faithfulness and courage of Mary, the mother of Christ, Cathedrals across the land have their doors wide open to welcome all people to encounter the truth of God come among us in the Christ child, born into poverty, vulnerable and in danger, the child of a refugee family.
This Christmas: A Message from the Association of English Cathedrals
This Christmas the story of Christ’s birth echoes again the reality of our world today, when millions of people like Mary and Joseph are vulnerable and in danger, and where this Christmas, once again, children will be born into poverty and into families who must flee for their safety.
It was this child as he grew who would call the world to a different way, the way of peace, and to a different world, where the currency is justice, the economy is love, and all have what they need to flourish.
This is the message of hope – of a world transformed – this is the message of Christmas.
In this season of celebration, and every day, our cathedrals seek to be agents of this hope in all that we do.
We warmly welcome you to join us in our Christmas celebrations, to hear and know the message of Christmas hope for you, in the beauty of music, in the stillness of a candle lit, or in the fun of celebrations for all the family.
We invite you also, as we look to a new year ahead, to join us in committing to bringing hope for the world.
We look forward to seeing you this Christmas – you are always welcome.
Dean Jo Kelly-Moore, chair of the AEC and Dean of St Albans
