We talk about the ‘Christmas spirit’ so much at this time of the year. For many people this spirit is typified by what St Francis did 800 years ago. In 2023 we still long to see God and be reassured that he has not abandoned us during the difficult times that the world faces. In an often complex world we all long for the simplicity of this scene and dare to believe that its message can be true for us.' Archbishop O'Regan