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Wishing peace

Today, just like 2,000 years ago, there's plenty of distractions and discouragement to a world that is longing for peace and hope.

"As we count down the days to Dec. 25 let us give thanks to God for the gifts of hope, peace, joy and love which came to dwell among us in the birth of the Christ Child." — Reverend Brenda Curtis, Westminster United Church

"We must be attentive, for... we too can easily miss His presence. Our God often does His greatest works silently, quietly, and so we have to be willing to look closely, to tear off the wrapping paper, so to speak, of these many moments in time that make up our lives." —Father Colin Roy, St. Augustine Parish

"To celebrate Christmas is indeed to celebrate the power of Christ Jesus who has given us the gift of the Holy Spirit. To celebrate Christmas is to celebrate not only the First Advent, but the Second Advent that is to come." — Pastor Greg Dermody, Humboldt Alliance Church