His Holiness Pope Shenouda III’s Address to the United States, Africa and Ethiopia on the Occasion of the Nativity of Christ
Introduction and Blessing
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III congratulates the children of the Coptic Church in the United States, Africa and Ethiopia on the arrival of the New Year and the Nativity, asking for for them a blessed life full of grace and peace in the Lord.
The Essence of the Nativity and Salvation
His Holiness reminds that the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ and His incarnation was the first step in the story of salvation, for He came to redeem the world and complete atonement and sacrifice for the salvation of mankind.
A Call to Work for Personal Salvation
The Pope calls every believer to strive for the safety of his soul and to care for eternity, affirming that Christian feasts are spiritual memories not linked to worldly pleasures.
God’s Love and Christ’s Example
He emphasizes Christ’s great love which appeared in His incarnation and in giving Himself for us, and recalls the Scriptures’ words that it is better for a man to save his soul than to gain the whole world and lose it.
Responsibility of Pastoral and Family Upbringing
The Pope directs responsibility to families and the church to pastorally care for and educate children from the beginning of their spiritual life, because caring for the young prevents greater problems in youth and ensures a holy and pure generation.
To Be an Example to the World
The Pope encourages that the life of believers and the new generation be a living example of God’s children who were created in the image of God and still bear this divine image.
Remembering the Church and the Homeland
He asks the faithful to remember their mother church and mother homeland in their prayers, affirming that the church remembers its children in prayers and care.
Conclusion and Blessing
His Holiness concludes with his deep congratulations and his prayer that the Lord keep all under His divine guidance and grant them divine graces and blessings.
Salvation
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