Churchgoers in New York City and around the world flocked to Christmas Day services yesterday, seeking a spiritual boost in the wake of violent tragedies at home and abroad.
Timothy Cardinal Dolan spoke yesterday of peace and hope in the wake of the Newtown school-shooting massacre.
“Christmas happens to be all about repair, restoration and renewal,” Dolan said during holiday services yesterday at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
“Today, bells chime in joy rather than toll in sorrow. Terror is quelled by truces — even war pauses.”
Christian leaders used the Christmas spotlight as a chance to speak out against violence. In Rome, Pope Benedict XVI stood on his balcony perch at St. Peter’s Basilica and urged leaders to end war in the Middle East.
“May peace spring up for the people of Syria,” he said. “I appeal for an end to the bloodshed.”
Parishioners in Manhattan said this year’s Yuletide message was more poignant than ever.
“In spite of what’s going on in the world — and Connecticut — we’re able to come together,” said Sheri Albers, 49, outside St. Patrick’s.