Light and life feature in bishops’ Christmas messages

In his message, Dunedin Bishop Michael Dooley said that “in the quiet darkness of Bethlehem, the Light of God shone forth in the face of a child, Jesus Christ, born of the Virgin Mary. We believe that he is the true light who comes to dispel every shadow and to guide us his people toward hope, peace and salvation”.

“In a world often marked by the shadows of uncertainty, conflict and fear, the birth of Christ reminds us that darkness never has the final word,” Bishop Dooley said.

“As we celebrate this holy Christmas season, we are called not only to just admire the light of Christ, but to reflect it.  As I travel through the Diocese it is always very inspiring to see the many ways people in our parishes care for one another and reach out to those in need. 

“Each act of hospitality, kindness and generosity allows Christ’s light to shine through us, we become living candles, bearing Christ’s presence into the world,” he added. “My prayer is that the light of the newborn Saviour may shine brightly in your homes and families this year, bringing peace and hope.”

In his Christmas message, Palmerston North Bishop John Adams acknowledged the current realities of war, political strife, technological challenges, a depressed economy and the fact that many are living with difficult personal circumstances.

Yet, in the midst of many difficulties, Bishop Adams said the Christmas season is still approached with anticipation and joy.

“ . . . [T]he truth is that our deepest longings as human people are found in the reality of a little baby, born one cold night in the squalor of a Middle Eastern stable. Yes, ‘the dawn from on high’ breaks upon us, not in the might of human endeavour, but in the very gift of life itself.”

Bishop Adams concluded his message: “May Jesus, who is Mighty God and ‘Prince of Peace’, enter more fully into your lives as you join the wise men and the angels in offering homage to him.”

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Bishop Michael Dooley Christmas Message 2025 (Catholic Diocese of Dunedin)

Bishop John’s 2025 Christmas Message (Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)