On this day, enlightened by that evangelical hope which issues from the humble grotto of Bethlehem, we invoke the gift of joy and peace for all: for children as well as for the elderly, for the young and for families, for the poor and the marginalized. May Jesus, who was born for us, comfort those who are being tried by sickness and suffering.
Our thoughts are especially directed to those experiencing persecution because of their faith, refugees fleeing wars and poverty, and those suffering from natural disasters like floods and earthquakes.
Where God is born, there hope is also born, and men and women recover strength and dignity.
A very merry Christmas from the Messenger of Saint Anthony and the friars of the Basilica!