Dear Friends,

An internet search reveals that the first Christmas card (that is one that was printed and sent by post) was dispatched in 1843 and carried the greeting: "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You". When I was a child I was encouraged by my Dad to think carefully about my Christmas greetings. We always chose cards with the words ‘Happy’ rather than ‘Merry’ Christmas, as it was explained to me merry meant getting drunk and we wanted to encourage Christmas as a spiritual occasion rather than a spirit-filled one! Merry meaning drunk has dropped out of use and perhaps we get back to an earlier form as in "God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay", meaning be festive despite your problems. In later life I have become cautious of using the greeting ‘Happy Christmas’, because not everyone feels cheerful at this time of year; illness or bereavement can affect our emotions at this special festival.

So what shall our greeting be? Of course you get further problems these days with so–called ‘politically correct’ cards which never mention Christmas, saying "Happy Holidays" or Season’s Greetings" or even "Best wishes for Winter-tide"!! The angels first announced the birth of Jesus with the words ‘Do not be afraid; for see - I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people…’, which has led to the use of the phrase have a ‘Joyful Christmas’, or ‘Joy to you’.

I tend to say have a peaceful Christmas, which at least echoes the angels’ song "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom he is pleased!" and may be a good wish for people feeling under pressure. Although I know that in many ways Christmas can be the least peaceful time of year, whether you are rushing to find presents, trying to get the cooking done or entertaining the rarely seen relatives. So I will wish you "A Peaceful Christmas", in the hope that it can be - but then I have a problem with what I wish you for the New Year, because I want to say have a peaceful 2010 too!

God’s blessing be with you this Christmas.

Peter