Every year in December, we feel how the anticipation of Christmas grows in us. We desire that there is peace among peoples, harmony among us and happiness for all thus we share signs of joy and gratitude with each other. Hope is sown by the birth of Jesus Christ.
Our greeting to each one of you is enriched by a special memory that is given to us by our Dutch Community.
“It happened during the 2nd World War. Our sisters had fled with many people in the cellars of their homes to protect them from bombing. While Christmas was getting closer, Sister Adeltraud noticed that there were no signs around them that could convey something of the spirit of Christmas. Sensitized, she searched in her art supplies, found a jute-sack, painted on it the picture that today is our Christmas card and framed it with wood residues, which were stored there. All were happy about the power of the message of the divine child, which was present in their midst.”
What mysticism moved Sister Adeltraud in creating this art of love that made her a prophet of Christian hope?
Today we reflect this image and think about the countless cellars, whether real or symbolic, in which so many people are waiting for a sign of love.
Let us be the light that carries the strong hand of Divine Providence, to enlighten the realities that are symbolically shown on this image, as well as many other realities worldwide.
Merry Christmas, dear Sisters and Brothers!