Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula cautioned that greed, abuse of power, and the erosion of public trust risk emptying Christmas of its true meaning, urging Catholics to embrace humility, faith, and conversion as they mark the birth of Christ.
In his Christmas Message 2025, Advincula said the season becomes shallow when it is reduced to excess and self-interest instead of reverence and reflection.
He highlighted a solemn moment during the Christmas Mass, when the faithful kneel at the profession of faith proclaiming that Jesus “was made flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary,” describing the gesture as a profound expression of humility and gratitude.
“This Christmas, let us take this simple ritual as a message and a reminder, and make room for it amid our many preoccupations,” Advincula said, emphasizing that kneeling before Christ signifies openness to God and a rejection of pride and self-centeredness.
The archbishop warned that when humility gives way to obsession with wealth and power, Christmas loses its depth. He added that abuse of authority and the breakdown of public trust distort social life, deepen injustice, and endanger communities.
Advincula called on the faithful to turn away from darkness and resist forces that undermine life and dignity, urging families and communities to draw closer to Bethlehem and approach the manger with faith, love, and hope, following the example of the shepherds and the wise men.