Leaders of faith communities share their holiday messages with readers of The Miami Laker.
Rabbi Mendel Weiss
Chabad of Miami Lakes/Northwest Dade
“As we kindle the Chanukah lights, we’re reminded of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teaching: ‘A little light can dispel much darkness.’ Just as the Maccabees’ small flask of oil illuminated the Temple, our individual actions can have a profound impact. “Let’s all strive to be ‘lamplighters,’ spreading kindness, compassion and wisdom in our daily lives. “May the warmth of the menorah inspire us to illuminate the world around us.” “We can each be a lamplighter in our own way, utilizing our internal oil inside, our potential.” Feel free to join our menorah lighting on Dec. 31 on Main Street at 7 p.m.
Father Joseph Lucas, Ph.D.
Rector of Christ the Saviour Orthodox Cathedral
“A famous carol many will recognize begins with the proclamation, “Hark! the herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King!’” “Though few are familiar with the second stanza that states, ‘Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, hail the incarnate Deity.’” “The mystery of Christmas has often been obscured, but the Holy Scriptures introduce to us the eternal Son of God who became man. “In so doing, he made it possible for our mortal nature to share in his immortality. As we approach this high holy day once more, let us praise God who became a child for our sakes.”
Danny B. Ghannoum, DPM
Member, Islamic Center of Greater Miami
“As we celebrate this holiday season, we extend heartfelt prayers and blessings to our community. “May joy and gratitude fill our homes and may the spirit of unity and compassion bring peace to every heart. “Let us remember those facing hardship, offering them hope and support. May our actions reflect kindness and generosity, extending empathy to those affected by conflict. “Let this season inspire us to advocate for a world where peace and harmony are shared by all. “Wishing you a holiday marked by togetherness, warmth, and the blessings of community.”
Pastor Tino Espinoza
Miami Lakes United Methodist Church
“The mystery of Christmas is a mystery. We experience only glimpses of what it means. “On the first Christmas, some people saw a star, others had dreams, and still others had visions of angels and heard heavenly anthems. “But all who experienced that first Christmas were never the same. “Today we experience Christmas in family gatherings, store decorations, Christmas music and giving and receiving gifts. But the best experience we might have this Christmas is the birth of the Savior in our hearts. “And as those who experienced that first Christmas in Bethlehem, we will never be the same. Merry Christmas.”
Father Ivan Rodriguez
Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Parish
“As we celebrate the birth of Jesus this Christmas, may you find moments of gratitude in each day, recognizing the many blessing in your life.
“May your faith be strengthened, and may you feel the presence of Christ in every moment, guiding and uplifting you throughout the season and beyond.”
Pastor Al Pino
Palm Vista Community Church
“What life changing introductions have set the course of your life? “In the Gospel of John, God introduced himself to us and changed the course of human history. May it change the course of your history. “‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.’” John 1:14 (English Standard Version). “May God be pleased to reveal Christ to you this Christmas as the one who was born to die to make peace between you and God.”