Christmas Season 2021: Rejoice in Christ’s birth – Archbishop Longley

On this Christmas Day, Archbishop Bernard Longley of Birmingham in the England, reflects on the Star of Bethlehem and the hope it brings as the Magi travel to welcome the Baby Jesus into the world

The Archbishop also dwells on how the Magi are themselves welcomed into the presence of Christ by Mary and Joseph. “The welcome given to travellers is something which we also think about at this time of year,” he says.

“It's been difficult,” he notes, “for people to travel to be with their families particularly because of the continuing pandemic restrictions, but I also think of those who have travelled to try to find safety and a new home and a new beginning for themselves, for their children and their families."

Archbishop Longley highlights the unique place Our Lady has within the family of the Church, and invites the faithful to follow her example. He also adds that "when we go to the crib we bring the thoughts of those who are close to us and those who are in need, particularly to Jesus through Mary, so the Crib I think it reawakens for many people that sense of prayer."