Christmas 2020: The light of hope shines brightest in darkness

Vatican News English Section

Celebrating the birth of the baby Jesus who brings the light of hope and salvation into the world, Sr Patricia Murray, Executive Director of the International Union of Superiors General, delves into her own roots and brings us a message from the Celtic tradition:

Sr Patricia brings us a prayer for all those who feel in need of a guiding light:

If your path is menaced by shadow,  may the Lord circle you,  keep light within, and darkness out.

If your path is targeted by conflict, may the Lord, circle you, keep Love near. Keep hatred afar.

If your path is threatened by worry, may the Lord, circle you, keep peace within, and fear without.

We have waited long for you, Oh Lord. Deep has been the darkness. We long for you to come, right here among us where we are now.

We will not fear the shadows that surround us because you are coming among us.

We await the sound of a cry in the night, the joy that follows pain, the coming of Hope into our world.

UISG is an International body rooted in Christ, and representing Congregations of Women Religious throughout the world. It seeks to witness to and proclaim the identity of apostolic religious life in all of its diversity. The mission of UISG is to build bridges that span distances, borders and boundaries in order to create ways for members to be in communication, in community and in communion. Its purpose is to promote an understanding of religious life, and its members are involved in different projects including the fight against human trafficking, protection of migrants, interreligious dialogue, education, Justice, Peace & Care of Creation.