Pope Francis declares War on Christmas: The holiday will be a “charade” this year
Pope Francis declares War on Christmas: The holiday will be a “charade” this year
"There will be lights, parties, bright trees, even Nativity scenes, while the world continues to wage war"
Pope Francis (Credit: Reuters/Dado Ruvic)In a speech late last week, Pope Francis came as close to cancelling Christmas as a pope likely ever has, calling the holiday a “charade” when “the whole world is at war,” as he currently believes it to be.
“We are close to Christmas,” he said. “There will be lights, there will be parties, bright trees, even Nativity scenes – all decked out – while the world continues to wage war.”
“What shall remain in the wake of this war, in the midst of which we are living now?” the pontiff asked. “Ruins, thousands of children without education, so many innocent victims, and lots of money in the pockets of arms dealers.”
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I think it's fine that the Pope is speaking for peace. I am not sure though, how this year is more warlike than any other year.
Maybe he is fed up.
Dear Friend John Russell: I too am glad the Pope is addressing peace prior to the end of the year holiday season.
War for territorial or other material acquisition, political posturing, distraction from domestic mischief, uniting people against common enemies (real or perceived) would be the opposite of his, your and my understanding of the central meaning and practice of religions (ours and others).
War as necessary for national defense is not only acceptable, it is a moral imperative. However, if I am not missing my guess, the Pontiff is not addressing that.
His message, as you correctly pointed out is that he is fed up with people going through the motions of celebrating a somber and important Holy Day. Doing this while ignoring or tolerating through silence lethal conduct unbecoming misses the mark for those who value peace, respect human life, rights and dignity.
Are we in agreement on this?
We do agree that this year is either equal to, worse or better than any other year regarding unnecessary and callous violence about the globe, depending on to which other year one compares 2015.
All best wishes to you and yours for a joyous and meaningful Thanksgiving, and a peaceful conclusion to this year through embracing the principal foci of various holidays, each as the spirit moves us individually and collectively.
Enoch.