Christmas 2011 Greetings

Vinh, December 24, 2011

Dear:

- Bishop

- Dear Fathers, male and female religious

- With the entire Community of God's People

Filled with joy and happiness to welcome God's Grace, the Catholic Solidarity Committee of Nghe An province respectfully sends to His Excellency, Fathers, male and female religious and the entire community of God's people in the province our best wishes for a peaceful, prosperous and blessed Christmas.

Celebrating Christmas this year, we are extremely excited and proud of the great achievements that have been made in the cause of national and homeland renewal. Welcoming the 66th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2; The successful election of the 13th National Assembly and People's Councils at all levels for the 2011-2016 term. The Catholic Church joyfully welcomes the Closing Ceremony of the Holy Year 2010 at La Vang Holy Land; The first year of implementing the Message of the Congress of God's People; Vinh Diocese solemnly organizes the Memorial Ceremony of Saint Anthony in a joyful, excited, safe and economical atmosphere. These achievements have the active contribution of the entire community and are a solemn offering to the Child Jesus on this Christmas night.

In communion with the Universal Catholic Church, we joyfully thank the Second Person of God who came to earth as a human to save humanity. He left a wonderful example of sacrifice and love for humanity. Following the Lord's example, we have been and are dedicating ourselves to serving others through charitable deeds and making positive contributions to the socio-economic development of our province. To carry out well the Message of the People of God Congress "Loving the Fatherland, loving our fellow countrymen, for Catholics is not only a natural sentiment but also a requirement of the Gospel" as Pope Benedict XVI advised all of us, clergy, religious and laity "By living a life built on charity, integrity, and respect for the common good, you must demonstrate that good Catholics are also good citizens"

May God guide and help us to always unite, innovate, accompany the nation, contribute to the cause of building and protecting the Fatherland, carry out well the Campaign "Living a good life, good religion", and together celebrate the important events of the country and the Church in 2012.

In the sacred moment of Christmas Eve, we turn to the manger where the Baby Jesus was born, praying for God's blessings on the entire community and wishing peace for each person on the occasion of the new spring of Nham Thin 2012.

"Glory to God in the highest,

Peace on earth to men of good will"

Catholic Solidarity Committee of Nghe An Province