Christmas 2023

God has already taken the world
and its time to his heart
and immersed his own incomprehensible life
into our time.
(from an Advent sermon by Karl Rahner, 1949)

 

Sister M. Margarete Ulager, General Superior, wrote in her circular letter:

"With these comforting words from Karl Rahner, I wish you wholeheartedly a joyous and blessed Christmas. Shortly after the end of the World War Second, the great theologian and priest Karl Rahner SJ (1904-1984) reminded us in an Advent sermon that Christian life also involves remembrance and expectation. God's arrival, his Advent, has irrevocably changed the world and will continue to change it, so that this world reflects God's light more and more, despite all our contrary experiences of misfortune, hardship, war and terror. 'I only have to believe in the Advent of God into our time', says Karl Rahner, because God has already taken the world and its time - through the birth of his Son - to his heart, so quietly that it can be overheard, and immersed his own incomprehensible life into our time.

The humble shepherds in the fields of Bethlehem listened to the angels' message. May this mystery of the Holy Night also strengthen faith and hope in our world and in each of us. 'Do not be afraid!' Together with the Sisters of the General Council I wish you and all those dear to you the peace of the newborn King.

                        Merry Christmas and a blessed, peaceful and healthy New Year 2024!"