FEAMC Christmas message by father Ďačok

“While they were there, the time came for her to have her child,
and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him
in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn”

Lk 2:6–7

Dear Members and Friends of the European Federation of the Catholic Medical Associations,

At this meaningful moment I am reaching out to you for the first time in my role as your colleague and as the newly appointed Ecclesiastical Assistant of FEAMC.

As the calendar year draws to a close, we recognize that it has been a demanding and challenging period for all of you. I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude for your tireless service to your patients. Your work has clearly been inspired by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and by His generous, compassionate love for every person.

The Jubilee Year now coming to an end has reminded us that we are on a journey as pilgrims of hope, called not only to live this virtue ourselves but also to encourage it in others. Unfortunately, this year was once again marked by the devastating war in Ukraine, which caused immense human suffering and material destruction and called for extraordinary dedication from our colleagues there. It was also the year in which the Lord called Pope Francis to Himself. We recall with deep gratitude his visits to several countries on our continent. At the same time, we welcomed the gift of a new Holy Father, Pope Leo, and we sincerely hope to draw inspiration from his magisterium.

During this Christmas season and throughout the days that follow, we joyfully celebrate the gift of the Child of God, who calls us to greater kindness and solidarity with one another. It is deeply moving to know that God entrusts us with His work and chooses to carry out both small and great acts of grace through us. The witness of the Good Samaritan (cf. Lk 10:30–37) and the promise that even “a cup of water” will be rewarded (Mk 9:41) give us strong encouragement as we look to the future.

In this blessed Christmas time, I sincerely wish that you may find renewal among your loved ones, regain strength and courage, and continue to carry the light of faith – kindling trust and joy in those who will follow after you.

For the coming New Year, I pray that you may be granted good health, an abundance of God’s grace, and His generous blessings upon you, your families, and all those who work alongside you.

With warm, friendly, and collegial greetings, united with you in prayer.

Fr. Ján Ďačok SJ
Eccelsiastical Assistant of FEAMC on behalf of the FEAMC Presidency