Nativity 2024- Archpastoral Letter

Beloved in Christ,

On the feast of the Nativity we thank God for His most precious gift: His only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. We express our thanks through the very elements proclaimed by the angels: Glory, Peace, and Good Will.

The defining characteristic of our Faith is the act of glorifying God. This glorification transcends mere spoken prayers. We glorify God through attitudes and actions that honor Him and His Kingdom.
Christians are summoned to be bearers of peace in the world, a peace which must first take root within our own hearts. As St. Seraphim of Sarov wisely counseled, when we acquire the Spirit of Peace, thousands around us will be saved.

In every interaction, we are called to embody a spirit of good will. Whether dealing with friend or stranger we must not permit animosity or indifference to take residence in our hearts. To hate is a grievous sin, but equally sinful is the cold indifference to the suffering and sorrows of others.

As we join the angelic chorus of praise to the newborn Lord, let us hold sacred the profound meaning of His birth. Our Lord Jesus Christ came so that we might all become recipients of His boundless good will, and participants in the peace and glory of His eternal Kingdom.
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Christ is born! Glorify Him!
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With love in the newborn King,
+Alexander
Archbishop of Toledo and the Bulgarian Diocese