There is something special about Christmas carols being sung by children at this time of year. They bring us back to our own childhoods, when the magic of Christmas - and particularly the anticipation - was palpable in every waking hour. For many of us now, that anticipation is more often than not crammed with the constant searching each day for the 'last few bits!' Along with the magic of the lights and carol singing, stress and anxiety can often rise to the surface due to the materialism and over-the-top commercialisation of Christmas - a danger we can all easily fall into.

I am sure that, like me, many of you find that Advent - that four-week build-up to the Christmas festivities - offers us a window of renewed anticipation and excitement, as we attend Nativity plays and hear children sing their hearts out. As adults, we would be wise to treasure these moments in our churches and schools, allowing ourselves to pause and let the 'reason for the season' filter through our eyes and ears and down into our hearts.

I have a deep fondness for Advent and the Christmas season, and I must say that I have been truly blessed this year to receive such a warm welcome from everyone I have encountered since my arrival in Lucan. It is a genuine joy to be with you all as I strive to help you grow closer to the Lord.

I have discovered a tremendous sense of community among the people of Lucan and Esker. So many of you, day in and day out, generously offer your time and dedication for the betterment of the area, and the preparations for Christmas are no exception.

At this time, it is important that we remind ourselves that this season calls us to renew our hope and joy, as we celebrate the birth of a child in an animal shelter in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago - a birth that changed the world forever. This child is God incarnate, who became one of us to usher in a hope and joy that can never be extinguished, no matter the struggles in our own lives or in the world around us.

I would gently encourage you to enjoy the lights of the Christmas trees in your homes, the decorations along our streets and in our squares; however, do not miss the Light of the World waiting for you in the manger.

Thank you once again for your kind wishes and warm welcome. May I take this opportunity to impart God's blessing upon you and all your loved ones, and may the Light of the World fill your hearts with hope, peace, and joy this holy season.

Fr. Bill O'Shaughnessy