By Benjamin Colombani of French Polynesia

Shun youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

[Excerpted from “When We Gather,” Advent and Christmas 2025 Resource]

On the white sand, soft as the foam of the waves,
A Tumu ha’ari (coconut tree) shines, decorated with lights,
We await Jesus, the promised Ari’i (chief/king),
The waves sing their gentle prayer,
Christmas draws near, our hearts rejoice.
The Pōreho (cowries) sparkle like jewels,
Little treasures left by the sea,
The joyful birds lift up their Pehepehe (songs),
They celebrate life,
A child is coming, a gift of love.
Beneath the starry sky that covers my beautiful motu (islet),
The palms sway softly,
The waiting is filled with hope and peace,
Like a secret carried by the Mara’amu (tradewind),
Christmas is proclaimed on our shores.
A Savior is born for us,
He comes to share our lives, our joys,
Even here, in the heart of my Fenua (land/home),
His love grows like a flame,
Christmas is written in our Hīmene (hymns).
So let us dance, sing with all our Vārua (spirit),
Pahu (drums) and voices join the sea,
Thank you, Jesus, you precious gift,
You come to shine in our new lives,
Christmas is celebration, Christmas is love

Prayer Phrase

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy” (Luke 2:10).

Kindling the Light

Choose a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably. Place a candle or small light in front of you. Take a few slow breaths, letting the noise of the day settle. Light the candle. As you strike the match or switch on the light, say softly:
“I make room for joy to grow within me.
I make room for the light that connects me to others.
I make room for the Spirit of Christ.”
Pause for a few breaths, letting the glow of the light fill your awareness.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.