As the festive season approaches, the Christmas lights are twinkling, and the air is filled with excitement. It is a time when we unite to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world. However, amidst the joyous atmosphere, recent events in the world of football and global conflicts serve as a sobering reminder of the chaos that exists in our society.
It is disheartening to hear about the violence that has marred football matches and the conflicts in regions such as the Middle East and Ukraine. The recent suspension of league games by the Turkish Football Federation due to a president’s toxic behavior and clashes between fans and law enforcement outside Eintracht Frankfurt’s Waldstadion are stark reminders of the darkness that can lurk within the beautiful game of football.
In times like these, it is essential to pause and offer prayers for peace in the Middle East and Ukraine. Let us come together to pray for a spirit of healthy competition and respect within the football community, especially during this festive period. At the same time, let us not forget to extend our support to our Club, acknowledging the dedication of our teams, staff, and manager, who work tirelessly to bring us joy and excitement, even in the face of challenges.
The birth of Jesus, the central figure of Christmas, brings a message of love, hope, and joy. This timeless message continues to resonate, reminding us of the true meaning of this season. I extend my warmest wishes to all the fans, owners, staff members, and players, hoping for a blessed Christmas and a successful year ahead.
I am incredibly grateful for the support of Khaled El-Ahmad and the opportunity to serve as the club chaplain for the past year. I also wish to express my deepest appreciation to my predecessor, Peter Amos, for his guidance and encouragement during my transition into this role. It is a privilege to be a part of this incredible journey with our Club.
For those who find Christmas to be a challenging time, remember that you are not alone in your feelings. You have weathered difficult holiday seasons before, and you have the strength to overcome this one as well. Take solace in the meaning of ‘Emmanuel’: God is with us.
As we navigate through the chaos, let us hold onto the beacon of hope that Christmas represents. Despite the challenges we face, may we find ways to spread love, peace, and joy, not just during the festive season, but throughout the year.
COYR! (Come on, you Reds!)