As we enter another Christmas time with lots of hopes and prayers it may be a good time to reflect on this world, we are living in which at times seems like a hopeless situation for many. 

We have active wars going on in Ukraine and the Middle East. During 2023 we have seen forest fires, flooding and even earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. In our North American cities and in many other locations, we see widespread poverty, homelessness and a growing sense of racism towards others. There is a building of politically conservative leadership which in itself is fine but is too often taken over by individuals who care little about the dignity of every human being. 

So where can we find hope in this chaotic world of ours? Perhaps we begin with the reason we celebrate this time of year. Let us recall the birth of Jesus Christ and what he brought to the world of 2000 years ago. HOPE! Jesus entered a world dominated by a morally corrupt and brutal government which cared little about human dignity. There was hatred, mistrust and persecution of others who did not share the same beliefs of the conquering and domineering Roman empire. 

Why not place our hopes in this boy child of many years ago and use this belief in the dignity of our fellow woman and man? As Vincentians we have a great opportunity to not only continue our efforts with a true sense of hope but to also share this hope with those less fortunate. When we take that uniquely Vincentian way to develop a personal relationship with our neighbours in need, we can see Jesus in each and everyone.  

May you all have a most holy and joyous Christmas! Our Hope can overcome hopelessness. 

About the author:

Jim Paddon lives in London, Ontario, Canada and is a Canadian Vincentian.  He is married to his dear wife Pat and they have six daughters and eleven grandchildren. Jim has been a member of the Society since the 1970’s.

I respectfully acknowledge the traditional, unceded territories of the Indigenous Peoples, including First Nations, Metis and Inuit, on which lands we meet, work and live.