‘Do not be held hostage by fear,’ says Kuching archbishop in Christmas message

A Malaysian archbishop urged the faithful not to let fear or despair hold them hostage in his Christmas message.

Kuching Archbishop Simon Poh invited everyone to celebrate the birth of Christ by praying and working together hand-in-hand “for peace and harmony in our land and the world.”

He stressed the importance of joy, hope, and peace right now as war between nations continues to dominate the news headlines, particularly in Gaza, Ukraine, and Myanmar.

“God wants to send us forth as Christ’s ambassadors for peace, hope, and goodwill,” he said. “We are to seek out people with goodness in their hearts and promote peace in our fragile world, society, in the classroom, workplace, and families.”

“Let not our hearts be burdened with unforgiveness and prejudices. Neither should we hold grievances nor harbour violent thoughts toward others, as these will lead us to utter angry, judgmental, and demeaning words toward our neighbours,” he also said.

The prelate reminded the faithful to pray for families who are suffering because of war as well as conflicts caused by human greed and selfishness.

He also expressed his hopes for lasting peace and harmony in Malaysia and around the world.

“May we embrace the message proclaimed by the angels at the birth of Jesus, ‘Do not be afraid’ and let us give praise to God, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to all people of goodwill," said Archbishop Poh.

The archbishop also stressed that the Christmas season will only become more meaningful if every Catholic has a sincere desire to love their neighbors and give generously “to those who are lonely, anxious and in despair.”

“I would like to appeal to everyone to always remember families, the elderly, and those who are in need, living amidst us in our neighborhood,” he said. “Let us be ready to give a helping hand to bring the hope and joy of Christmas to them.” - Luke Godoy