Christmas Season 2021: Rejoice in Christ's birth - Archbishop Martin

In his Christmas Message, the Primate of All Ireland and Archbishop of Armagh, Eamon Martin invites people to remember the true meaning of Christmas, especially as the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic remain.

"The Coronavirus retains its grip, making us feel uncertain, weary and confused and even fearful of the latest variant," he says.

"How much we all need to hear those consoling words of the Angel on the first Christmas night. “Do not be afraid, I bring you news of great joy.”

The Archbishop notes, it is easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas with so much rushing around, and buying presents.

“It’s only right and proper that we celebrate the joy and happiness of Christ’s birth, but to do so authentically is to remember the Christ Child embraced the reality of poverty and suffering in the world.”

Archbishop Martin says that the challenge to all of us “is to be grounded; to bring faith to life.”