The Christmas story traditionally shows a giant star hovering above the stable in Bethlehem, guiding the wise men to the infant Christ. What was this star and how did it lead the Magi? Here are six fascinating things to learn about the Star of Bethlehem, with astrophysicist-turned Catholic priest Fr Douglas McGonagle.
From the moment that Cain, blinded by envy, killed his brother Abel, humanity has been plagued by violence, wars, hatred and oppression. Yet, as Pope Francis reflects in this blog, God has been patient with us, never giving up, but waiting for the moment when He would send us a great light in the form of His Son. What is important now, the Pope says, is to seek the Lord.
O Emmanuel, you are our king and judge, the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour. O come and save us, Lord our God.
O King whom all the peoples desire, you are the cornerstone which makes all one. O come and save man whom you made from clay.
O Rising Sun, you are the splendour of eternal light and the sun of justice. O come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.
O key of David and sceptre of Israel, what you open no one else can close again; what you close no one can open. O come and lead the captive from prison; free those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.
