Metropolitan Nathanael’s Archpastoral Christmas Encyclical 2023

Christmas 2023

To the Clergy, the Monastic Communities, and the blessed faithful of the Holy Metropolis of Chicago.

Beloved fathers and brethren, Beloved children in the Lord:

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

In this season of joy and reflection, I extend my heartfelt greetings as we celebrate the birth of our Lord, and Savior, Jesus Christ. Christmas is a time of giving and receiving, not merely in the exchange of material gifts, but more importantly, in the bestowing and accepting of God’s grace.

Let us remember that the essence of Christmas lies not solely in the festivity of the day but in the enduring spirit of love, compassion, and generosity. As we exchange presents with our loved ones, let us also contemplate the profound gift of salvation bestowed upon us by the Incarnation.

During this special season, we are invited to reflect upon the words of the Lord: For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you welcomed me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me (Matt.25: 35-37). The birth of our Savior serves as a striking reminder of our calling to become beacons of hope, compassion, and charity, especially to our vulnerable neighbors.

As we prepare to usher in the New Year, I invite you to support the philanthropic work of the Church, especially through the Philoptochos Society and the Project HOPE ministry. Through your active engagement and compassion, it is my prayer that we will embody the true essence of Christian charity each day of the year.

Wishing you a joyous Christmas and a blessed New Year, I remain

With love in the Incarnate Christ,