ADVENT LANTERN (daily meditations)

The thoughts of Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Tamás József

It is not very common to know our family tree. Some people who are very interested in the history of their family, have their family tree done. The Gospels have preserved the family tree of Jesus. But not only those belong to Jesus’ family tree, whose names are written and preserved in the Gospel, but all the Christians. Once when Jesus was told his mother and family were waiting for him, asked: but who is my mother and who are my relatives?! “And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, Jesus said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.’” (Matthew 12:49-50) Christmas is a wonderful feast for us, because we belong to Jesus. It is such a great honour and pleasure to belong to Jesus!

Photo: Geréd Zsolt

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For World Mission Day 2026, which marks the centenary of a celebration established by Pius XI that is very dear to the Church, I have chosen the theme “One in Christ, united in mission.” Following the Jubilee Year, I wish to encourage the whole Church to continue its missionary journey with joy and zeal in the Holy Spirit.
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Each year the World Day of Migrants and Refugees invites us to turn our attention to different aspects of the complex phenomenon of migration. For this 112th World Day, the theme, “Even just one of these children,” draws our attention to the minors directly involved in the experience of migration and flight, to the care owed to them, and to the Lord’s promise that “whoever receives one such child in my name receives me” (Mk 9:37).
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Dear brothers and sisters, the path before us is clear, though it is not easy. We are called to allow our hearts to be renewed, so that we might seek peace and care for creation. Scripture tells us to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from them (cf. Prov 4:23).