TWELVE months ago we awaited the New Millennium. Now it seems to have died away. Was it simply the biggest party of the Century or was it a time of reflection and new beginnings?

Sadly, the events of September 11, the Afghan war and the terrible events in the land we call the Holy Land suggest it was simply a party.

Advent and Christmas is a time for renewed vision and renewed hope.

During Advent we are a people waiting. Advent is a hope-filled time, it is a time of expectation and anticipation.

But most of all it is a time of waiting waiting for the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, in our lives and in the world.

The Christmas message is very simple.

I feel commercialism is taking over, and the message is lost.

How do we get back to the true spirit of Christmas?

Be at peace with yourself and know what you are celebrating.

I pray that you find true inner peace in your hearts.

After all this was the message Christ brought to the world.

May each one of you find the peace of Christ in your hearts this Christmastide.