World leaders share Christmas greetings
Posted Dec 25, 2012 8:18 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Christmas messages are flooding in from world leaders with hope for peace, and a happy and healthy 2013.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued his own well wishes to Canadians, calling our country the greatest in the world, and urging everyone to keep the less fortunate in our thoughts this holiday season.
Harper says Canada remains an island of stability amid global economic uncertainty.
“What a time Christmas is. It’s a time to be with those nearest and dearest, it’s a time of renewal, it’s a time when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, and an occasion for Canadians of all backgrounds to come together in appreciation of our most fortunate country.”
Harper says now is the time to be thinking of those struggling to make ends meet.
Queen Elizabeth II took time to reflect on an eventful year for the monarchy, highlighting the honour that was her Diamond Jubilee, and the success of the Summer Olympics in London.
She issued well-wishes to members of the British armed forces, and encouraged everyone to reach out to those who are on their own during Christmas.
The message of Pope Benedict’s Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican was one of peace.
Benedict prayed for an end to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians and violence in Syria and Iraq.
He also prayed that China’s new leaders respect religion; a reference to persecution Chinese Roman Catholics have endured.
Christmas morning mass in Soweto, South Africa included prayers for the health of former president Nelson Mandela.
“We wish him a very speedy recovery, and we wish him a Merry Christmas…” One worshiper said.
The 94-year-old anti-apartheid icon has been in hospital since December 8th.
If you want to share your own Christmas message with 660News, give a call to our listener line at 403-686-9838.
