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Many people will be carefully considering what to do where to go and how much interaction to be involved in with other people during the days leading up to Christmas. Once again we are living through another wave of a new form of the virus which has the potential to wreck yearned for opportunities to gather with loved ones over the Christmas period. No one wants to test positive and have to cancel the longed for reunion and so we play safe. I am amazed and in admiration of those who will still travel many miles to visit loved ones and before departing organise themselves to have the right type of test at the right time in the right place. Though none of us want these pressures we can turn them into opportunities to reflect and prayer about the challenges Mary and Joseph had to face as they prepared for the birth of Jesus. In Matthew’s Gospel Joseph faces many challenges to Mary and the child’s safety. He has to show courage, a cool head and the ability to plan and organise. In Luke’s account we learn of how Mary receives unexpected news that will change the direction of her life for ever. Both Mary and Joseph have to make a long and difficult journey at a time when they would have preferred to stay at home and be safe. Yet also in both gospel accounts there are the kindnesses of strangers who help the little family though the challenges ahead. Whatever you plans for this Christmas and New Year season may you too find the support and guidance needed to be able to share an important time with loved ones and discover through whatever you may experience the presence of the Holy Family in your lives providing the hope and healing grace we all need. God’s Blessings be with you and all your loved ones. Fr. Desmond.