My dear sisters and brothers, 
It seems that all the world watched with horror, and was mesmerised when on Monday April 15 2019, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was burning. How could this happen, people wondered. At the time a lot of people said it felt like their heart sank.
Only two days later, President Macron set a five-year deadline for its restoration. On the weekend of December 7/8 this year, that promise was fulfilled. Symbolically and in fact, there was a return to the heart, and a beating heart.

Whatever this year has held for you, and for some the hits seem to keep on coming, Christmas is that time where we find once again what is at the heart of life and of faith. The birth of a small child in a secluded, abandoned place, little old Bethlehem, still echoes in many people’s hearts because it returns us to what is most important, that which is at the core and heart of being human and what faith is all about.

Sometimes in life we can be overwhelmed by the incongruities, or paradoxes or inconsistencies of life. However when we return to the heart of things we can see differently. We see with hope. We find God.
I think of all of you and your loved ones as you gather to celebrate Christmas this year. I picture the many beautiful churches across the Archdiocese, where you will gather to remember the birth of Jesus. Some of you may be at home, or in aged care; wherever you are, I send my greetings to you.
As we reflect upon this year, we remember another uncertain year. And yet we are inspired by the witness of so many generous people who daily make a difference by providing shelter to the homeless; feeding the hungry, and who continue to accompany people with such empathy. Seeing communities supporting one another, reminds us of the goodness which truly exists and surrounds us - we see people at their very best when we return to the heart.
This is my fifth Christmas in Adelaide, and it is home. I know that despite all the challenges that this year has presented, and often it feels otherwise, we are not alone, we are directed to the heart and dare to dream as the people of the world did that what has happened for Notre Dame can happen for us. Christmas shows us that even in chaos and uncertainty God is with us. God is at the heart of who we are.
May Christmas 2024 be a time to return to the heart; of great peace; trust and forgiveness, for you and your families and friends. May we rediscover who lies at the heart, Jesus Christ our true light for God is Good, Good indeed.