There are many aspects of the Christmas story that we will reflect upon as we approach this joyous festival, writes Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton.
“One is how Mary and Joseph looked desperately for a place to stay in Bethlehem. A kindness was shown to them when they were allowed to use a shelter that would have been used by shepherds, possibly not much more than a small cavern in the ground, where men and animals would find protection through the night.”

When Saint Matthew’s Gospel tries to sum up the mystery of Christmas the author makes mention of the name “Emmanuel” which, he says, means “God is with us”. The Chosen People of Israel had always believed that God was with them and that God spoke to them especially through the prophets.

In his 2020 Christmas Message, Mgr Paul Boyers writes that everything about Christ’s birth speaks about vulnerability. The parents could not find a bed for the night, and ended up in a smelly stable.

The Catholic Church has established a new company to oversee all safeguarding, child protection and professional standards in Australia, creating a more focused and streamlined model.

As we journey towards Christmas 2020, many people will not be able to follow their usual plans for Christmas, writes Geraldton Bishop Michael Morrissey in his 2020 Christmas Message.

Marking the 150th anniversary of St Joseph being declared patron of the universal church, Pope Francis proclaimed a yearlong celebration dedicated to the foster father of Jesus.

Sadly, the Christmas peace the angels sang of when Jesus was born is hard to see in Australian society today. So many seem troubled, angry, alienated and confused in their lives.

This is the final article by Peter Wilkinson in the series looking at the various particular councils (provincial and plenary) convened by the hierarchy of the Catholic Church in Australia between 1844 and 1937. It examines the First Provincial Council of Melbourne held in Melbourne from 17-24 November 1907.

The Hon Chris Ellison has been reappointed Chancellor of The University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA) for a second term.

While reporting a burglary to the police, Hope discovers a jar full of money, labelled “Christmas Jar”.