Rev. Dr. Joseph Lucas Christ the Saviour Orthodox Cathedral 16601 NW 77th Court, Miami Lakes, Fla. 33016
Christmas Eve service 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
For Orthodox Christians, the story of the Bible reaches its crescendo with the coming of Jesus Christ. As St. John records in his Gospel, that same one who was eternally with the Father has become flesh and dwelt among us: the son of God is born in Bethlehem. But why, we might ask. In that he is divine, he is the source of eternal life and in that he has become human, he can share his eternal life with us. The miracle of Christmas marks the beginning of the end for death, which indeed is “good news.”
Danny Basel Ghannoum, DPM Member, Islamic Center of Greater Miami-Masjid 4305 NW 183rd St., Miami Gardens, Fla. 33055
As we celebrate this season of light and gratitude, the Islamic Center of Greater Miami extends heartfelt greetings of peace and goodwill to our neighbors and friends of all faiths. May this season of reflection fill our hearts with comfort, joy and renewed compassion. Through the bonds of community and the spirit of neighborly love, may we continue to foster understanding, friendship and lasting peace. May the Lord’s blessings and mercy be upon us all.
Rev. Dr. Tino Espinoza, Pastor Miami Lakes United Methodist Church, 14800 NW 67th Ave., Miami Lakes, Fla. 33014
Dear Miami Lakes, As Christ’s birth approaches, let us reflect on the incredible significance of that first Christmas so long ago. Jesus was born into our world and so was hope. He came, “…not to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:17). This Christmas, as you celebrate Christ’s birth around loved ones, or circumstances require you to spend Christmas differently than you desired, take time to reflect on the beauty of God’s gift to you. We wish you all the joy and peace that Christ came into this world to bring!
Rabbi Mendel Weiss Northwest Community Synagogue
In every sparking flame of Chanukah, we hear the Callan message of the Chabad Lubavitcher Rebbe. Bring light where there is darkness, warmth where there is cold and hope where there is fear. A single undying candle can illuminate a world of doubt, reminding us that steadfast faith, courage and acts of goodness outshine gloom. May our homes, hearts and deeds reflect that eternal truth: light always conquers darkness. Let us kindle kindness, share joy, and renew faith in every hour, until the world itself shines with peace and redeeming light.
Father Ivan Rodriguez Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Parish, 15801 NW 67th Ave., Miami Lakes, Fla. 33014
As we celebrate the birth of our savior, let us open our hearts to the light of his love. Christmas is not only a day of joy but a reminder that God is with us, bringing hope, peace and salvation. May this holy season renew your faith, strengthen your families and fill your homes with grace. Let us carry the message of Christ beyond the walls of our home, sharing kindness and compassion with all we meet. May the Prince of Peace bless you abundantly this Christmas and throughout the coming year.
Pastor Al Pino Palm Vista Community Church 1956 NW 183rd St., Miami Gardens, Fla. 33056
In Chapter 1 of the Gospel of Luke, God reveals his unique power and unmerited grace to bring forth the savior he promised and we so desperately need. Two women, Elizabeth and Mary, one old and barren and the other young and as yet unmarried. Two miraculous conceptions, John and Jesus, one will point to the forever king and other is the forever king who came to die and rise again for the citizens of his kingdom. The point of Luke 1 is that nothing is impossible with God! He brings life from dead wombs, he conceives a child apart from human agency, he is God in the flesh, the forever king and he establishes his forever kingdom in human history and human hearts. That is the headline of this chapter. The appeal is to each one of us; will we believe and submit to the forever king and live under the rule of his forever kingdom by his saving grace?