Letter: Let’s remind ourselves of the true meaning of Christmas
A letter from W J Craig (this letter appeared in the December 29 2025 print edition of the News Letter):
As Christmas is here, it is worth pausing to consider how far we have drifted from the true meaning of this most important Christian festival.
In recent weeks, Easter eggs already began to appear on shop shelves before Christmas Day itself had even arrived! This relentless commercial push seems to hurry us from one retail season to the next, leaving little room for reflection, reverence, or gratitude.
Christmas is, above all else, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Its message of hope, humility, and peace has shaped our culture and values for generations. Yet that message risks being drowned out by consumerism and constant distraction.
Last Sunday, I attended the traditional Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at my local church.
In the simplicity of scripture and familiar carols, I was reminded of how powerful it can be to slow down and reflect on what truly matters. There was no rush and no pressure, just a quiet reminder of why Christmas exists at all.
Perhaps this Christmas we might resist the pressure to hurry on, and instead take time to rediscover our Christian roots, to appreciate the simple things, and to allow the true meaning of Christmas to take centre stage once more.
Wishing all readers a truly wonderful Christmas and may the new year bring a renewed hope for unionism and a more peaceful world.
W J Craig, Belfast BT5