Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Each year, as we draw near to the manger in Bethlehem, we are invited once again to let our hearts be touched by the profound humility of the Christ Child. In the quiet of that holy night, God entered our world not with power or spectacle, but with a love so gentle that it could be cradled in human arms. It is this steadfast, unfailing, and personal love that we celebrate at Christmas.
In every corner of our Diocese of Allentown, I see signs of that same love made visible. I see it in our parish communities that welcome the stranger, care for the poor, and support families. I see it in our dedicated priests and deacons, consecrated religious men and women, and countless lay faithful who give witness to Christ through their daily sacrifices. I see it in our young people who seek Jesus with sincerity, and in our elderly who continue to exemplify wisdom, patience, and faith. For all of this, I offer you my heartfelt gratitude.
This year has brought its share of challenges, but it has also revealed the deep capacity for hope that resides in the Christian soul. Christmas reminds us that no darkness is too deep for the light of Christ to penetrate. The Child of Bethlehem comes to bring healing where there is hurt, peace where there is division, and courage where there is fear.
We live in a world in desperate need for peace between nations, within communities, and often within our own families. I ask every member of our Diocese to be a bearer of Christ’s peace. Let forgiveness begin in our hearts; our words be gentle; and our actions reflect the mercy of the Savior. May our homes and parishes become places where the peace of Bethlehem radiates outward into a world in need.
As you gather with loved ones, I pray that your homes and families may be filled with the joy of Christ’s presence. May the Infant Jesus bless you abundantly; may Mary, His Mother, wrap you in her tender care; and may Saint Joseph protect and guide you, as he once protected the Holy Family.
Please know of my prayers for each of you at my Christmas Masses. I ask you, in turn, to remember in prayer those in our Diocese who are lonely, grieving, or in need in any way.
With every good wish for a Blessed Christmas and a Holy New Year I remain
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+ Bishop Schlert
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