'Look beyond gifts and celebrations this festive season'

Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, the Head of the Catholic Church in Fiji and Rotuma, has reminded people to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas beyond celebrations and gifts.

In his Christmas message, Archbishop Chong said Jesus’ ministry focused on the suffering and the vulnerable.

“He defended the dignity of the weak, challenged corrupt leaders and called for deep change in society,” he said.

“This is why his life was threatened again and finally taken away.”

“Jesus died because of how he lived, standing with the poor, fighting injustice and calling for transformation.”

He said the life, teachings and sacrifice of Jesus became a source of hope for millions.

“His suffering and death became a new shoot of life, empowering people to continue his mission in the world,” he said.

Archbishop Chong said the birth of Jesus Christ marked God’s decision to enter the world and rescue humanity from chaos, injustice and destruction.

“Christmas celebrates God entering into the world because human beings have failed to order their lives according to God’s plan,” Archbishop Chong said.

He said the story of Adam and Eve symbolised human disobedience and sin, but also reflected God’s patience and mercy.

“God does not give up on us,” he said.

“He wants to free us from things that destroy life, such as drugs, sickness, domestic and gender-based violence, child abuse, injustices, economic exploitation and poverty.”

Archbishop Chong said God chose people of faith like Abraham, Moses, David and Mary throughout history, and sent prophets to guide humanity. This journey reached its fulfilment when God came to earth through Jesus Christ.

However, he said Christmas joy and peace remained distant for many people.

“From the day he was born, Jesus’ life was under threat,” he said.

“King Herod wanted him killed, and Joseph and Mary were forced to flee to Egypt as refugees.”

He said this reflected the reality faced by many people today, whose safety and dignity are threatened by war, persecution, poverty, domestic violence and exploitation.

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