Sir Henry Cole has a lot to answer for. 170 years ago the founder of the V&A Museum printed the first commercial Christmas Card. Even then Christmas could be controversial: his chosen picture of a family drinking wine together was not universally welcomed! However the idea caught on and this week the sorting offices at Horsham and Billingshurst were heaving. Despite the early hour and the sheer scale of work the atmosphere was great – as they played their part in getting nearly half of all greetings cards sent throughout the year to their destinations – alongside what was last year a record 120million parcels.
The Royal Mail isn’t alone in getting busier at the time of year that many choose to spend time with family and friends. For many people on whom we rely, Christmas Day will not involve a day off. The Emergency Services, Hospital and Hospice staff and many of our servicemen and women will be on duty doing there bit to keep us safe and cared for over the Christmas period.
They won’t be alone. Throughout the local area volunteers will be helping others. The Crawley and Horsham Samaritans manning telephones for those who find Christmas a desperate challenge. The Horsham Churches Together Winter Homeless Hostel providing warmth and a bed for the night to those in need; lunches and kindness organised by volunteers or provided by neighbours to those who would otherwise be alone.
The last week, for me has meant Nativity Plays and Carol Services: the childrens’ excitement of Christmas and, for us, the remembrances of Christmases past. Throughout all the bustle and demands of Christmas the meaning shines through. Whether Christian, another faith or none at all the message of Peace and Goodwill on earth is timeless. It does however have particular resonance when there is so much suffering in the region of the world that we remember in our Carols and readings. May I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and that we may look forward to a peaceful New Year.