Christmas doesn’t always seem like the most peaceful time of year- it can often involve us rushing around buying last minute Christmas gifts with seasonal music blaring over the tannoy. However, the great number of cards with images of doves and messages of peace and goodwill serve as a reminder of the deeper, more meaningful message of peace at this time of year.

Advent can be a chance to reflect on the issues of peace and justice in our lives and the world around us. Many of the readings from Isaiah and Psalms that we will hear during this advent season speak of God’s peace and justice. However, one of the most popular Christmas cards at Pax Christi features a quote from Howard Thurman, who says that it is after the glow of Christmas that the work for peace and justice begins: “When the song of the angels is stilled…The work of Christmas begins; to find the lost; to heal the broken; to feed the hungry; to release the prisoner; to rebuild the nations; to bring peace among people; to make music in the heart.”

On the weekend of National Youth Sunday, I had the privilege of joining the ‘Celebrating Young People Awards’ alumni gathering. We shared and reflected on their work for social justice and learnt about how other people have answered this call. The reflection, fellowship and learning resulted in some rewarding and challenging conversations. We were inspired by one another and felt even more keenly the call to work for peace and justice, that impels us to act.

So, before the Christmas music fades and the sales start, let us take a bit of time to reflect. Let’s ask ourselves how are we working for peace, how are the people around us working for peace and how can we inspire each other to continue to work for peace once Christmas is over?

By Aisling Griffin, Schools and Youth Education Officer, Pax Christi UK