Celebrate Christmas amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

How does one celebrate Christmas this year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic?

This would probably be one in contemporary history when we are encouraged to celebrate the Christmas season in its essence, in its simplicity.

With a focus on the Covid virus, we are preoccupied with guidelines on how to celebrate Christmas this year– with only members of the family who are living in the same household, to continue wearing masks, observe social distancing, or to wash hands frequently.  We are being discouraged from visiting one another for our mutual protection and safety.  The usual Christmas glee and merriment that we have been accustomed to is not possible this year.

But our celebration of Christmas should not be dampened by Covid! Let us spread more hope, peace, joy and love this Season!

And this is where I am reminded of the birth of our Savior.  The Christmas story is one of simplicity.  Our Lord and Savior was born in a manger with only his mother and father.  His guests were a shepherd, a few animals and the three magi.  It is a heart-warming reminder of the true reason of the season.  This year has been difficult for all of us but we cling to Hope. That amidst all of the confusion and fear that the pandemic has brought, God is with us, has always been and will always be with us.  Jesus is the light of the world!

May the baby Jesus continue to have room in our hearts, our lives reflect Christ’s presence, and our homes radiate God’s peace. With abundance of faith, hope and love, we will all get through this crisis together.

From the Trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, alumni, students and friends of Silliman University –  A blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!