Bishop Daniel E. Thomas Christmas Greeting 2015

God the Father “sent his only Son into the world, born of the Virgin Mary, to reveal his love for us in a definitive way. Whoever sees Jesus sees the Father. Jesus of Nazareth, by his words, his actions, and his entire person reveals the mercy of God.” As we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, these words of Pope Francis, as he opened the Jubilee Year of Mercy, come alive. Jesus, the Word made flesh, is Mercy in the flesh! This Christmas Season and beyond, I invite you to encounter his mercy in the Sacraments of Confession and the Holy Eucharist, so that you might receive and experience his mercy, so that others might encounter his mercy in you. I encourage everyone in our Diocese of Toledo to respond to the Lord’s invitation: “Come, enter into my mercy.” This Christmas Season, if you need to reconcile with a family member, friend or coworker, do so. If you need to ask forgiveness from someone, do so. If you need to forgive someone, do so. This Christmas Season, each of us who welcomes Mercy made flesh is asked to extend his mercy to those around us who are in need. I encourage you to reach out with the mercy of Jesus to those around you who are in need physically, spiritually or emotionally. “Mercy has become living and visible in Jesus of Nazareth.” My wish for you and your loved ones is a Christmas filled with the Mercy of the Lord, as we strive together to foster holy disciples, holy families and holy vocations. May you have a Blessed Christmas and a Holy New Year!