On December 28, the Church celebrates the feast of the Holy Innocents.
In Matthew’s Gospel we read of the murder by King Herod’s soldiers of young babies in Bethlehem following the birth of Jesus and his escape to Egypt.
It is a time for us to reflect on the fate of the young innocent victims in our world this year: the child victims of war in the Middle East, Ukraine and other conflicts and violence throughout the world; and also those suffering as a result of poverty both in this country and the poorer countries of the world.
As we approach the New Year, let us pray for new beginnings for peace and prosperity with justice.
We ask for changed hearts and minds so that the dignity of all people will be respected and the young will not experience the trauma of war and violence.
We call upon world leaders and politicians to work towards a world in which all have access to food, shelter, healthcare and education and to ensure equal opportunities so that children and young people have hope for a better future.
As we enter the New Year, let us resolve to do our bit to make these dreams a reality.
Are there things that we can do in our own relationships to build peace in our communities?
Can we strive to reduce poverty by sharing our resources and calling upon politicians to make changes that will transform our society and the world?
Wishing you all a Happy New Year.
Sue Cooper from Corpus Christi Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
