Dear Friends,

On this day, Americans of all religious persuasions, and none, will pause with their families to break bread, perhaps drink a toast, and share a moment of joy – especially if they are among the fortunate. But on this day, we must remember too that here and abroad, there remain millions for whom there is, in that memorable phrase from the Christmas story, “no room at the inn.”

That ancient story celebrates the birth of a child who entered the world sheltered in a stable, whose parents were impoverished and rejected, and who grew up to serve the poor, heal the sick, and comfort the outcast.

It is a tale 2,000 years old, yet never dated – bearing a powerful message of humility, compassion, and charity that too many of our political leaders have yet to comprehend even dimly, no matter how often they profess to worship its teacher. And still many others have upheld its compelling essence over the centuries, regardless of their identification with any spiritual creed.

So today we extend the warmest of holiday wishes to you, our readers, of all beliefs, with hope that the coming year brings our country and our world closer to living in peace, good will, generosity, and justice.

Merry Christmas!

Joe Conason

Photo via Wikimedia Commons